Buying a home is exciting—until the surprises start. In this episode, Gregory Ricks and mortgage professional Dwayne Stein of Mortgage Gumbo answer a caller’s question and walk through what happens when post-purchase problems pop up, why your rate isn’t the whole story, and how to avoid costly mistakes.

For more episodes like this head over to www.gregoryricks.com/podcast

For the latest in financial news, why don't you tune into "Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks" LIVE on Saturday Mornings from 10 am - 1 pm on:

• New Orleans - WRNO-News Talk 99.5 FM
• Biloxi- WBUV - News Talk 104.9 FM

OR watch on YouTube LIVE on our YouTube page Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks!

If you have any questions or are looking for some financial advice?
CLICK HERE to Book a Consultation

The free consultation provides an overview of products and services offered by Gregory Ricks & Associates. Investment advisory services made available through AE Wealth Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser, and there is no obligation.

Losing a loved one is emotionally devastating—but it can also create unexpected financial turmoil. In this episode, Gregory Ricks shares eye-opening statistics, personal stories, and practical steps to help you prepare for the financial aftermath of a death in the family. From funeral costs to lost income, estate planning to surviving spouse concerns, we cover what you need to know before a crisis hits. Whether you're 30 or retired, now is the time to get involved and make sure both partners are on the same financial page.

SOURCES:

Over Half of Americans Stumble Financially After Losing a Loved One. Are You Prepared?

Half of Americans Struggle Financially After Losing a Loved One

For more episodes like this head over to www.gregoryricks.com/podcast

For the latest in financial news, why don't you tune into "Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks" LIVE on Saturday Mornings from 10 am - 1 pm on:

• New Orleans - WRNO-News Talk 99.5 FM
• Biloxi- WBUV - News Talk 104.9 FM

OR watch on YouTube LIVE on our YouTube page Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks!

If you have any questions or are looking for some financial advice?
CLICK HERE to Book a Consultation

The free consultation provides an overview of products and services offered by Gregory Ricks & Associates. Investment advisory services made available through AE Wealth Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser, and there is no obligation.

In this episode of the Ask Gregory Podcast, Gregory answers a listener’s question about working past retirement age and how that affects Social Security benefits. Later in the episode, Wealth Advisor Brandon Blanchard and Gregory discuss how a team-based advisory approach may benefit clients long-term. They also break down Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs), required minimum distributions (RMDs), and the power of reaching that first $100,000 in your 401(k).

If you're considering retirement, thinking about charitable giving, or evaluating what you need from a financial advisor or firm, this episode may be able to help you make informed decisions.

For further reading, check out our blog article “Qualities to Look for When Choosing a Financial Advisor.”

For more episodes like this head over to www.gregoryricks.com/podcast

For the latest in financial news, why don't you tune into "Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks" LIVE on Saturday Mornings from 10 am - 1 pm on:

• New Orleans - WRNO-News Talk 99.5 FM
• Biloxi- WBUV - News Talk 104.9 FM

OR watch on YouTube LIVE on our YouTube page Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks!

If you have any questions or are looking for some financial advice?
CLICK HERE to Book a Consultation

The free consultation provides an overview of products and services offered by Gregory Ricks & Associates. Investment advisory services made available through AE Wealth Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser, and there is no obligation.

Gregory Ricks takes a close look at the Social Security Fairness Act and what its recent passage means for both government employees and the future of Social Security itself. Using real-world examples, he breaks down why repealing the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO) could lead to unintended — and unfair — financial consequences for American taxpayers. Gregory also shares insights from Harvard Business School's Arthur Brooks about two common financial mistakes that can derail your financial goals: normalizing debt and confusing spending with happiness. Whether you're preparing for retirement or just trying to stay on track with your money in 2025, this episode will give you important updates, critical advice, and steps to protect your future. 

For more episodes like this head over to www.gregoryricks.com/podcast

For the latest in financial news, why don't you tune into "Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks" LIVE on Saturday Mornings from 10 am - 1 pm on:

• New Orleans - WRNO-News Talk 99.5 FM
• Biloxi- WBUV - News Talk 104.9 FM

OR watch on YouTube LIVE on our YouTube page Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks!

If you have any questions or are looking for some financial advice?
CLICK HERE to Book a Consultation

The free consultation provides an overview of products and services offered by Gregory Ricks & Associates. Investment advisory services made available through AE Wealth Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser, and there is no obligation.

Feeling stuck or overwhelmed by your finances? You’re not alone—and you’re not out of options. In this episode of Ask Gregory, Gregory Ricks helps you reconnect with your financial goals by making them personal, achievable, and even enjoyable. From shifting your mindset about emergency funds (hello, “reserve accounts”) to choosing the best debt payoff strategy, Gregory lays out realistic, motivating steps anyone can take and ways to make financial goal setting fun! Whether you’re ready to start saving, stop stressing over credit cards, or just want to feel more in control, this episode gives you the motivation and tools to make it happen.

For more episodes like this head over to www.gregoryricks.com/podcast

For the latest in financial news, why don't you tune into "Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks" LIVE on Saturday Mornings from 10 am - 1 pm on:

• New Orleans - WRNO-News Talk 99.5 FM
• Biloxi- WBUV - News Talk 104.9 FM

OR watch on YouTube LIVE on our YouTube page Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks!

If you have any questions or are looking for some financial advice?
CLICK HERE to Book a Consultation

The free consultation provides an overview of products and services offered by Gregory Ricks & Associates. Investment advisory services made available through AE Wealth Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser, and there is no obligation.

Download our free whitepaper:
gregoryricks.com/podcast112

Many of us know we should be having important financial and life planning discussions with our family members, but often avoid these tough conversations. In this podcast, financial advisor Gregory Ricks shares why it's crucial to have open dialogues about topics like estate planning, retirement readiness, long-term care, and passing on wealth - even when it feels uncomfortable.

Gregory provides practical advice for initiating these family meetings, managing potential awkwardness, and ensuring your loved ones are prepared for the future. He emphasizes the need to approach these discussions with care and concern, not judgment.

Whether you're worried about your aging parents' finances or want to get your own kids started on the path to financial literacy, this podcast will equip you with the tools and mindset to have the conversations that matter most. Don't let fear or discomfort stand in the way of protecting your family's wellbeing.

Download our free whitepaper now to learn how to facilitate the tough talks that can make all the difference! gregoryricks.com/podcast 112

SUMMARY KEYWORDS

Christmas Dinner, Family Gathering, Financial Education, Teenagers' Finances, Emergency Money, Retirement Plans, Compounding Wealth, Inheritance Planning, Estate Planning, Social Security, Long-Term Care, Healthcare Costs, Financial Advisor, Retirement Income, Financial Conversations

For more episodes like this head over to www.gregoryricks.com/podcast

For the latest in financial news, why don't you tune into "Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks" LIVE on Saturday Mornings from 10 am - 1 pm on:

• New Orleans - WRNO-News Talk 99.5 FM
• Biloxi- WBUV - News Talk 104.9 FM

OR watch on YouTube LIVE on our YouTube page Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks!

If you have any questions or are looking for some financial advice?
CLICK HERE to Book a Consultation

The free consultation provides an overview of products and services offered by Gregory Ricks & Associates. Investment advisory services made available through AE Wealth Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser, and there is no obligation.

Are you approaching or already in retirement? Join us for this informative podcast as we explore practical strategies to help you manage your finances and secure your financial future. We'll cover topics such as maximizing your Social Security benefits and understanding tax implications, effective debt management and building an emergency fund, smart investment approaches to help grow your retirement savings, navigating healthcare costs and insurance options, and estate planning and protecting your assets.

Whether you're just starting to plan for retirement or already enjoying your golden years, this podcast is designed to provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to confidently manage your finances and achieve a fulfilling retirement. Tune in and take control of your financial well-being.

Start planning for a secure future today by visiting us at www.gregoryricks.com

For more episodes like this head over to www.gregoryricks.com/podcast

For the latest in financial news, why don't you tune into "Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks" LIVE on Saturday Mornings from 10 am - 1 pm on:

• New Orleans - WRNO-News Talk 99.5 FM
• Biloxi- WBUV - News Talk 104.9 FM

OR watch on YouTube LIVE on our YouTube page Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks!

If you have any questions or are looking for some financial advice?
CLICK HERE to Book a Consultation

The free consultation provides an overview of products and services offered by Gregory Ricks & Associates. Investment advisory services made available through AE Wealth Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser, and there is no obligation.

In this episode, host and financial advisor Gregory Ricks and CPA Jude Heath dive deep into the complex world of entity registrations and charitable giving options. They discuss the new FinCEN beneficial ownership reporting requirements, including deadlines and penalties for non-compliance. The conversation also covers the intricacies of setting up charitable trusts and family foundations, highlighting the administrative challenges and tax implications. Listeners will gain valuable insights on how to properly structure their entities and maximize their philanthropic efforts while staying compliant with the latest regulations. Whether you're a business owner, tax professional, or someone looking to make a meaningful charitable impact, this episode is a must-listen to get the most out of the ever-evolving financial landscape.

For more episodes like this head over to www.gregoryricks.com/podcast

For the latest in financial news, why don't you tune into "Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks" LIVE on Saturday Mornings from 10 am - 1 pm on:

New Orleans - WRNO-News Talk 99.5 FM
Biloxi- WBUV - News Talk 104.9 FM
OR watch on YouTube LIVE on our YouTube page Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks!

If you have any questions or are looking for some financial advice?
Schedule a Complimentary 15-minute Phone Visit: https://gregoryricks.com/schedule-a-visit-podcast

For more episodes like this head over to www.gregoryricks.com/podcast

For the latest in financial news, why don't you tune into "Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks" LIVE on Saturday Mornings from 10 am - 1 pm on:

• New Orleans - WRNO-News Talk 99.5 FM
• Biloxi- WBUV - News Talk 104.9 FM

OR watch on YouTube LIVE on our YouTube page Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks!

If you have any questions or are looking for some financial advice?
CLICK HERE to Book a Consultation

The free consultation provides an overview of products and services offered by Gregory Ricks & Associates. Investment advisory services made available through AE Wealth Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser, and there is no obligation.

As you approach retirement, have you given much thought to your estate planning? If not, this podcast episode is a must-listen! Join us as Gregory sits down with Wes Blanchard, a leading estate planning attorney, to discuss the importance of getting your affairs in order before it's too late.

Wes shares real-life stories that highlight the dangers of procrastination and the consequences it can have on you and your loved ones. He'll guide you through the key steps to protect your assets and ensure a smooth transition into your golden years, whether it's setting up a will, establishing powers of attorney, or ensuring your financial affairs are in order.

Retirement is a time to enjoy the fruits of your labor, but without proper estate planning, you risk leaving behind a mess for your family to sort out. Tune in to this episode and gain the knowledge and confidence to help take control of your estate planning and help secure your future. Don't wait until it's too late -  this podcast episode offers guidance on why taking control of your estate planning is crucial as you approach retirement!

For more episodes like this head over to www.gregoryricks.com/podcast

For the latest in financial news, why don't you tune into "Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks" LIVE on Saturday Mornings from 10 am - 1 pm on:

New Orleans - WRNO-News Talk 99.5 FM
Biloxi- WBUV - News Talk 104.9 FM
OR watch on YouTube LIVE on our YouTube page Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks!

If you have any questions or are looking for some financial advice?
Schedule a Complimentary 15-minute Phone Visit: https://gregoryricks.com/schedule-a-visit-podcast

For more episodes like this head over to www.gregoryricks.com/podcast

For the latest in financial news, why don't you tune into "Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks" LIVE on Saturday Mornings from 10 am - 1 pm on:

• New Orleans - WRNO-News Talk 99.5 FM
• Biloxi- WBUV - News Talk 104.9 FM

OR watch on YouTube LIVE on our YouTube page Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks!

If you have any questions or are looking for some financial advice?
CLICK HERE to Book a Consultation

The free consultation provides an overview of products and services offered by Gregory Ricks & Associates. Investment advisory services made available through AE Wealth Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser, and there is no obligation.

 In this episode of "Ask Gregory" host Gregory Ricks and guest Wes Blanchard, Estate Planning Attorney, dive deep into the evolving landscape of auto insurance and essential coverage strategies. They discuss rising premiums, the importance of uninsured and underinsured motorist protection, and ways to safeguard your assets. Together, they tackle common misconceptions about insurance claims, explore the value of umbrella coverage, and offer practical tips for balancing protection with affordability. This episode provides valuable insights for everyone aiming to make smarter financial decisions about their insurance needs. 

For more episodes like this head over to www.gregoryricks.com/podcast

For the latest in financial news, why don't you tune into "Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks" LIVE on Saturday Mornings from 10 am - 1 pm on:

• New Orleans - WRNO-News Talk 99.5 FM
• Biloxi- WBUV - News Talk 104.9 FM

OR watch on YouTube LIVE on our YouTube page Winning at Life with Gregory Ricks!

If you have any questions or are looking for some financial advice?
CLICK HERE to Book a Consultation

The free consultation provides an overview of products and services offered by Gregory Ricks & Associates. Investment advisory services made available through AE Wealth Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser, and there is no obligation.