This episode was recorded on December 23, 2023. Just before going on the air, Don's wife told him about a lost dog found 3,000 miles from his Washington state home. The outpouring of offers to help was soul-stirring. Later, we talked about the foolishness of following the hottest parts of the markets and why annuities are one of the best selling "investments." Plus, we took listeners questions:

What are the best funds for a simple portfolio?

Is Morningstar a good source of investing information?


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A Christmas Dog Story

34-year financial talk radio veteran, Don McDonald and former host of Serious Money on PBS, Tom Cock, join forces to talk about real money issues. In each episode, they solve real money problems, dole out real investing (not speculating) advice, and really explain the financial issues that effect all of us. Plus, it's actually fun! Talking Real Money is a podcast designed to provide the real help we all need to enjoy a really great future. Call in with your questions anytime at 855-935-TALK (8255).

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In this episode:


0.54 America's Obsession with New Media and Gurus


1:55 The GameStop Saga Begins


2:43 Reddit's Influence on GameStop Stock


3:33 Lessons from the GameStop Rollercoaster


5:20 Seeking a Second Opinion in Investing


6:19 The Stupidity in Following Stock Recommendations


7:03 GameStop Stock: A Question of Valuation


8:30 The Evolution of the Gaming Industry


8:54 What to Learn from the GameStop Frenzy


9:49 Investing vs. Speculation


12:05 Vanguard's Fiduciary Advisors and Financial Decisions


12:31 Importance of Getting a Second Opinion


15:03 Adjusting Investment Strategy for Retirement


15:31 Vanguard's Changes in Customer Service


16:45 Questioning Vanguard's Decision-Making


21:25 The Significance of Money in Your Life


26:34 Addressing Hodgepodgeitis in Your Investment Portfolio


27:34 Vanguard's Controversial Fee Changes


34:02 Strategies for Protecting Equities After Hours


36:46 The Remarkable Story of Dimensional Funds


38:26 Platforms for Investing: Schwab vs. TD Ameritrade


39:58 Resources and Information at TalkingRealMoney.com


40:49 Important Disclaimer and Legal Information


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Roaring Kitty Returns!

We don't often have guests, but we do, from time to time, invite some of the best minds in money management to join us. Author and financial educator, Dan Solin spends time with us this week to share some wisdom from his latest book, Wealthier: The Investing Field Guide for Millennials. We discuss buying a home versus renting, saving and investing for retirement, and the future of Social Security.
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Money for Millennials

On the week's question and answer session, Tom and Roxy take written questions from listeners about:

Social Security spousal benefits.

Moving Emergency Cash

Short-Term Cash Options

Portfolio Diversification

AVGE vs. BND Allocation

Real Estate Sales and Tax Planning


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Tom and Roxy Qs

Was retirement really better in thge past? Have 401k plans been a retirement income benefit or detriment? Might there be a better way to insure a secure retirement income? We also explore the difference in long-term returns between large-cap and small-cap value stocks. Plus, we hear from listeners:

Why does the actual income from I-Bonds not match the stated rate?

Can income from a court settlement from a stock in an IRA be transferred into the IRA?

Is it better to take retirement income from investments annually, monthly, or as needed?

Looking for a quick portfolio review?

Is it okay to start spending extra money in retirement?



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Retirement Income Evolution

Beware of complex investments or those promising to provide higher returns using some financial sleight-of-hand. Higher returns always require some sort of tradeoff. There are no special systems to game the markets, long-term. Then, we hear from listeners:

He stayed in bonds and lost money, should he stick with them now?

How can current assets be grown to enough to support retirement needs?

Does it make sense to buy a second home on the beach?

How should a very conservative retiree invest retirement funds?


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A Christmas Dog Story

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