Becoming Work Optional

In this episode of Becoming Work Optional, Matt and Rachael discuss what to do when receiving a large bonus or windfall. They emphasize the importance of tax planning and working with a team of professionals, including a CPA and estate attorney. They also highlight the need to consider personal values and goals when deciding how to allocate the funds, and to take time to celebrate and reflect on the purpose going forward.

Key Points Discussed:

1. When receiving a large bonus or windfall, it is important to plan ahead for taxes and allocate a portion of the money for taxes.
2. It is advisable to wait and take time to digest the windfall before making any hasty decisions or investments.
3. Before taking action, it is essential to consider your values and goals to determine how you want to use the money to make an impact.
4. Building a team of professionals, including financial advisors, CPAs, attorneys, and therapists, can help navigate the complexities of managing a large windfall.
5. Setting aside enough money for taxes and establishing work optional status can provide financial security and peace of mind.
6. Working with a proactive CPA can help identify tax strategies, such as donor-advised funds or tax loss harvesting, to mitigate tax liabilities.
7. Estate planning considerations may arise for significant wealth events, and it may be necessary to establish trusts or other measures to protect and pass on assets efficiently.
8. It is important to evaluate the return on hassle when considering complex investments solely for tax purposes, as simplicity and alignment with personal values should also be considered.
9. Celebrating the windfall and taking time to enjoy it is essential, as it can be a life-changing event. Reflecting on the purpose and finding meaning beyond financial success is crucial for long-term happiness.

Join Rachael and Matt as they provide practical advice for navigating the complex world of personal finance, helping listeners make informed decisions to secure their financial future.

Rachael

X/Twitter - @camp_wealth

rachaelcampwealth.com

Matt

X/Twitter - @matthew_garasic

unrivaledwm.com

Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discussion about finance, investing, and related subjects. The content provided in this podcast is not intended as investment advice and should not be taken as such. Always seek the advice of a professional or conduct your own research before making financial decisions.

Rachael Camp offers advisory Services are offered through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser, and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA & SIPC, 2704 S. Goyer Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. 765-453-9600.

Neither Camp Wealth or Unrivaled Wealth Management are affiliated with the CFD companies or each other.

In this episode of Becoming Work Optional, Matt and Rachael delve into the nuances of dividend investing, discussing both its advantages and tax implications. They break down the concept of dividends, including the distinction between qualified and non-qualified dividends, and explore how stock holding periods influence taxes. The conversation also covers the relationship between dividends and share prices, the limitations of focusing solely on dividends, and the importance of a diversified investment strategy. Matt and Rachael also weigh the merits of dividend investing against capital appreciation and highlight common misconceptions and risks associated with dividend investing.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Understanding Dividends: A dividend is a company's distribution of profits to shareholders. Qualified dividends are taxed at long-term capital gains rates, while non-qualified dividends are taxed as ordinary income.
2. Dividends and Share Prices: Dividends are not 'free money.'
3. Dividend Investing Strategies: Investing in large-cap value companies that pay dividends can limit the investment universe. High dividend yields can be misleading as they may reflect a declining share price rather than a solid investment.
4. Limitations of Dividend Investing: Solely focusing on dividends may provide an incomplete picture of a company's performance. Taxes on dividends can be burdensome. Total return, which includes both price appreciation and dividends, is a more comprehensive measure of investment performance.
5. Dividend Investing vs. Capital Appreciation: Diversification remains crucial, and investment decisions should not be based solely on dividend policies.
6. Risks and Misconceptions: A high dividend yield does not necessarily equate to a good investment and could deplete the portfolio if unsustainable. Dividend stocks can still face significant volatility. Emphasizing total return and maintaining diversification is key to managing risk and achieving overall investment success.

Join Rachael and Matt as they provide practical advice for navigating the complex world of personal finance, helping listeners make informed decisions to secure their financial future.

Rachael

X/Twitter - @camp_wealth

rachaelcampwealth.com

Matt

X/Twitter - @matthew_garasic

unrivaledwm.com

Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discussion about finance, investing, and related subjects. The content provided in this podcast is not intended as investment advice and should not be taken as such. Always seek the advice of a professional or conduct your own research before making financial decisions.

Rachael Camp offers advisory Services are offered through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser, and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA & SIPC, 2704 S. Goyer Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. 765-453-9600.

Neither Camp Wealth or Unrivaled Wealth Management are affiliated with the CFD companies or each other.

In this episode, Rachael interviews Ron "Omani" Carson where he shares his journey from a challenging childhood in Nebraska to becoming a successful financial advisor and business owner, emphasizing the importance of persistence and the shift from a scarcity to an abundance mindset. He discussed the transformative impact of therapy and psychedelic experiences on his personal and professional life. Omani also highlighted his commitment to philanthropy and conscious leadership, including his new venture, Omya, aimed at promoting holistic well-being and social justice.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Mr. Carson grew up in Nebraska, where his family were farmers, and he faced financial struggles.
2. Omani's childhood experiences with poverty and family bankruptcy instilled a fear and scarcity mindset.
3. Omani struggled for six years in his financial advisory career before achieving significant success.
4. A pivotal moment came when he sought therapy and psychedelic therapy, leading to a mindset shift from scarcity to abundance.
5. Omani's relentless work ethic initially led to personal sacrifices, including limited time with family.
6. Omani and his wife are deeply involved in charitable activities, focusing on issues like clean water, food security, and end-of-life dreams for the elderly.
7. Mr. Carson is a proponent of conscious capitalism, aiming to create a positive impact through his business and personal efforts.
8. Mr. Carson is launching a new business, Omya, focused on holistic living and conscious leadership.
9. Mr. Carson aims to build a 100-year company and continues to set ambitious goals, driven by a desire to make a significant social impact.

Join Rachael and Matt as they provide practical advice for navigating the complex world of personal finance, helping listeners make informed decisions to secure their financial future.

Rachael

X/Twitter - @camp_wealth

rachaelcampwealth.com

Matt

X/Twitter - @matthew_garasic

unrivaledwm.com

Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discussion about finance, investing, and related subjects. The content provided in this podcast is not intended as investment advice and should not be taken as such. Always seek the advice of a professional or conduct your own research before making financial decisions.

Rachael Camp offers advisory Services are offered through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser, and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA & SIPC, 2704 S. Goyer Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. 765-453-9600.

Neither Camp Wealth or Unrivaled Wealth Management are affiliated with the CFD companies or each other.

In this episode, Rachael and Matt discuss the mindset shift required when transitioning to a fully work optional status. They emphasize the importance of shifting focus from money to impact work and finding fulfillment in creating and contributing to the world. They also encourage listeners to challenge traditional work constructs and create a schedule that aligns with their natural rhythms and passions.

Key Points Discussed:

1. The shift to becoming work optional involves shifting your mindset away from working for money and towards impact work.
2. It can be difficult to make this shift, especially for those who have been focused on earning a paycheck for most of their lives.
3. Shifting to impact work requires taking on more risk and being comfortable with not relying on a steady paycheck.
4. Exploring your hobbies and deeper values can provide a starting point for identifying impact work that aligns with your interests.
5. It's important to focus on your internal scorecard and what brings you fulfillment, rather than solely chasing external markers of success.
6. The goal of work optional status is not to retire and relax, but to continue working on things that align with your personal beliefs and values.
7. It's important to figure out your ideal day and schedule, breaking away from the traditional nine-to-five pattern.
8. Taking breaks and allowing for rest and rejuvenation can lead to increased productivity and focus.
9. Challenging and questioning various aspects of your life can help in making the shift to work optional status.

Join Rachael and Matt as they provide practical advice for navigating the complex world of personal finance, helping listeners make informed decisions to secure their financial future.

Rachael

X/Twitter - @camp_wealth

rachaelcampwealth.com

Matt

X/Twitter - @matthew_garasic

unrivaledwm.com

Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discussion about finance, investing, and related subjects. The content provided in this podcast is not intended as investment advice and should not be taken as such. Always seek the advice of a professional or conduct your own research before making financial decisions.

Rachael Camp offers advisory Services are offered through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser, and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA & SIPC, 2704 S. Goyer Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. 765-453-9600.

Neither Camp Wealth or Unrivaled Wealth Management are affiliated with the CFD companies or each other.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the 'Becoming Work Optional' podcast, Matt and Rachael delve into the intricacies of employee stock options, exploring both their benefits and complexities. They provide a comprehensive overview of how stock options work, including the critical differences between non-qualified and incentive stock options, the importance of vesting, and the role of stock performance. The episode wraps up with insights into cost basis, tax consequences, and the importance of diversification in managing company stock.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Overview of Stock Options: Matt and Rachael explain stock options as a form of equity compensation and the need for thorough organization for tax and strategic planning.
2. Types of Stock Options: Differentiation between non-qualified stock options (NQSOs) and incentive stock options (ISOs), including their tax treatment—taxed upon buying (NQSOs) versus selling (ISOs).
3. Stock Options Pricing and Vesting: Explanation of how stock options are priced and the significance of the vesting schedule.
4. Tax Implications and Liquidity: Discussion on the tax impacts of exercising stock options and the differences in liquidity between private and public companies. Public companies often offer cashless exercises, simplifying access for employees.
5. Cost Basis and Taxes: Exploration of the cost basis concept in stock transactions and its tax implications. Advice on managing company stock considering tax consequences and the importance of diversification.
6. Financial Strategy and Risk Management: Emphasis on setting diversification limits, evaluating the overall financial strategy, and managing risk tolerance when deciding whether to sell stock options.

Connect with us:

Rachael

X/Twitter - @camp_wealth

rachaelcampwealth.com

Matt

X/Twitter - @matthew_garasic

unrivaledwm.com

Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discussion about finance, investing, and related subjects. The content provided in this podcast is not intended as investment advice and should not be taken as such. Always seek the advice of a professional or conduct your own research before making financial decisions.

Rachael Camp offers advisory Services are offered through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser, and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA & SIPC, 2704 S. Goyer Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. 765-453-9600.

Neither Camp Wealth or Unrivaled Wealth Management are affiliated with the CFD companies or each other.

In this episode, Matt and Rachael discuss the concept of generational wealth and the goals that clients have for helping their children financially. They explore different tools and strategies, such as 529 accounts, UPMA accounts, brokerage accounts, and custodial Roth accounts, that can be used to pass on wealth to the next generation. They also touch on the importance of educating children about money and the potential downsides of generational wealth, such as lack of motivation and the need for careful estate planning.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Many clients have the goal of generational wealth and want to help their children financially.
2. Understanding how you want to help your children is the first step, whether it's covering college expenses, providing a head start in life, or supporting their career choices.
3. Different types of accounts, such as 529 plans, UPMA accounts, brokerage accounts, and custodial Roth accounts, can be used to build generational wealth.
4. It's important to consider the tax implications, control, and restrictions of each account when deciding which ones to use.
5. Lack of education about money is a common reason why generational wealth is destroyed, so it's important to educate children about budgeting, saving, and investing.
6. Trusts and estate planning can be used to protect and preserve generational wealth, especially in high net worth situations.
7. Being secretive about the extent of generational wealth and waiting to inform children until they have established their own careers and financial habits can help maintain their motivation and prevent entitlement.
8. Lifetime gifting and transferring assets while still alive can be a beneficial strategy to see the impact of generational wealth and ensure it is used when most needed.
9. It's important to balance providing financial support with allowing children to experience some hardship and develop their own financial responsibility.

Join Rachael and Matt as they provide practical advice for navigating the complex world of personal finance, helping listeners make informed decisions to secure their financial future.

Rachael X/Twitter - @camp_wealth

rachaelcampwealth.com

Matt X/Twitter - @matthew_garasic

unrivaledwm.com

Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discussion about finance, investing, and related subjects. The content provided in this podcast is not intended as investment advice and should not be taken as such. Always seek the advice of a professional or conduct your own research before making financial decisions.

Rachael Camp offers advisory Services are offered through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser, and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA & SIPC, 2704 S. Goyer Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. 765-453-9600.

Neither Camp Wealth or Unrivaled Wealth Management are affiliated with the CFD companies or each other.

In this episode, Rachael and Matt discuss the important steps and expectations to consider when choosing a financial advisor. Whether you’re looking for comprehensive financial planning or need help with a specific issue, understanding what to look for can help you make an informed decision. We cover key topics such as assessing rapport, the importance of transparency, and ensuring proactive communication from your advisor.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Know what you’re looking for
   • Step back and consider if you’re really looking for someone to manage your complete financial situation or if you’re only looking to solve a specific problem (e.g., “I’m paying too much in taxes”).
2. Do your due diligence
   • Research the advisor to learn everything you can about what they do, their process, and how they charge. This helps avoid an unwanted sales pitch.
3. Assess rapport
   • An introductory meeting is all about getting a feel for the person and learning more about their service.
4. Expect more than just investment management
   • Look for comprehensive financial planning, coordinating every element of your financial life (investments, cash flow/savings, tax, estate, insurance, and any other part of life that your money touches).
5. Solutions instead of products
   • No investment product replaces a financial plan.
6. Transparency
   • Know what you’re paying.
   • Know how your advisor gets paid.
   • Understand conflicts of interest.
7. Education
   • The best advisor will help you understand your plan.
   • You should be able to explain your plan to someone else.
8. Proactive Communication
   • You should hear from your advisor more than once a year.
9. Thoroughness
   • You can’t expect exceptional results with mediocre inputs.
   • Onboarding should take time because there’s so much to consider.
10. Fiduciary duty at all times
    • Understand the difference between fiduciary duty when making investment recommendations vs. fiduciary duty at all times.

Join Rachael and Matt as they provide practical advice for navigating the complex world of personal finance, helping listeners make informed decisions to secure their financial future.

Rachael X/Twitter - @camp_wealth

rachaelcampwealth.com

Matt X/Twitter - @matthew_garasic

unrivaledwm.com

Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discussion about finance, investing, and related subjects. The content provided in this podcast is not intended as investment advice and should not be taken as such. Always seek the advice of a professional or conduct your own research before making financial decisions. Rachael Camp offers advisory Services are offered through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser, and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA & SIPC, 2704 S. Goyer Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. 765-453-9600. Neither Camp Wealth or Unrivaled Wealth Management are affiliated with the CFD companies or each other.

In this episode Rachael and Matt discuss the traditional versus Roth debate when it comes to retirement contributions. They emphasized the importance of considering individual variables such as tax brackets, income changes, spending habits, and future tax implications. They also highlighted the value of timing strategies and Roth conversions in optimizing tax savings.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Traditional IRAs provide a tax deduction in the current year, grow tax-deferred, and are taxed upon withdrawal in retirement.
2. Roth IRAs require you to pay taxes in the current year, but offer tax-free growth and tax-free withdrawals in retirement.
3. The goal is to pay the least amount of tax, taking advantage of lower tax brackets.
4. If your tax rate stays the same, there is no difference between traditional and Roth.
5. Consider variables such as changes in tax laws, marital status, state income tax, spending habits, retirement age, and sources of retirement income.
6. A rule of thumb is to contribute to Roth if you are in the 10-12% tax bracket, traditional or Roth in the 22-24% bracket, and traditional if you are in the 32% bracket or higher.
7. Customize your approach based on your career stage, spending habits, and potential for future income changes.
8. Pay attention to big swings in income and consider timing strategies for traditional or Roth contributions.
9. Consider the impact of RMDs, Medicare premiums, and Social Security taxation in retirement.
10. Many individuals are forced into a mix of traditional and Roth due to income limitations and employer plans.
11. Roth conversions in retirement can be beneficial, especially for high earners or those with large brokerage accounts.
12. It's important to customize your strategy based on your individual situation and seek professional advice.

Connect with us:

Rachael

X/Twitter - @camp_wealth

rachaelcampwealth.com

Matt

X/Twitter - @matthew_garasic

unrivaledwm.com

Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discussion about finance, investing, and related subjects. The content provided in this podcast is not intended as investment advice and should not be taken as such. Always seek the advice of a professional or conduct your own research before making financial decisions.

Rachael Camp offers advisory Services are offered through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser, and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA & SIPC, 2704 S. Goyer Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. 765-453-9600.

Neither Camp Wealth or Unrivaled Wealth Management are affiliated with the CFD companies or each other.

In this episode, Rachael and Matt tackle common financial mistakes and delve into the complexities of insurance coverage, investment strategies, and tax planning. From the misallocation of savings to the risks of speculative investments, they offer valuable insights into optimizing financial decisions and avoiding pitfalls.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Misallocation of savings and poor risk management stemming from undefined financial goals.
2. Importance of adequate insurance coverage, particularly for disability insurance.
3. Risks of market timing and speculative investments, emphasizing the need for a balanced portfolio.
4. Importance of well-planned investment strategies and proactive tax planning.
5. Significance of tax efficiency and cost minimization in investment returns.
6. Strategies for optimizing savings, including utilizing employer benefits.
7. Importance of understanding traditional versus Roth savings options and their implications for long-term financial goals.

Join Rachael and Matt as they provide practical advice for navigating the complex world of personal finance, helping listeners make informed decisions to secure their financial future.

Rachael X/Twitter - @camp_wealth

rachaelcampwealth.com

Matt X/Twitter - @matthew_garasic

unrivaledwm.com

Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discussion about finance, investing, and related subjects. The content provided in this podcast is not intended as investment advice and should not be taken as such. Always seek the advice of a professional or conduct your own research before making financial decisions. Rachael Camp offers advisory Services are offered through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser, and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA & SIPC, 2704 S. Goyer Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. 765-453-9600. Neither Camp Wealth or Unrivaled Wealth Management are affiliated with the CFD companies or each other.

Episode Summary: In this episode of "Becoming Work Optional," hosts Rachael and Matt discussed the concept of becoming work optional, emphasizing the importance of giving up status games, living below one's means, and avoiding bad debt. They also highlighted the benefits of this lifestyle, such as increased happiness and flexibility, and the need for proper financial planning and investment strategies. Lastly, they stressed the balance between enjoying the present and planning for the future, and planned for future discussions on topics such as traditional versus Roth investing.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Work Optional Concept and Sacrifices
   • The hosts discussed the sacrifices required to achieve a work optional life. They emphasized the importance of giving up status games and the desire for immediate gratification, highlighting the need for a long-term perspective. Lastly, they stressed the importance of defining one's own path and goals, and considering whether the end result is truly desired.
2. Work Optional Living and Prioritizing Freedom
   • The hosts argued that living below one's means is a crucial step towards achieving financial freedom and reducing the reliance on a paycheck. They also highlighted the importance of understanding the opportunity cost of every decision, considering the time, money, energy, and attention it will consume.
3. Avoiding Bad Debt and Enhancing Insurance
   • Rachael and Matt emphasized the importance of avoiding bad debt and ensuring proper insurance coverage as crucial components of their overall financial strategy. They highlighted that bad debt, such as loans taken out for depreciating assets, can significantly hinder wealth building efforts.
4. Discussing Work Optional Lifestyle and Financial Planning
   • They discussed the concept of becoming 'work optional', which focuses on achieving financial independence to create a more fulfilling and flexible lifestyle. They highlighted the benefits of this lifestyle, such as increased happiness, creativity, and the ability to pursue personal interests. The discussion also touched on the idea of progressing through different levels of financial goals.
5. Balancing Work and Life Priorities
   • Matt and Rachael discussed the concept of living a work optional life and the balance between enjoying the present and planning for the future. They emphasized that making financial sacrifices should not come at the cost of valuable time with family and loved ones.

This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for listeners looking to understand the foundations of investing and how to approach it in a thoughtful and informed manner.

Connect with us:

Rachael

X/Twitter - @camp_wealth

rachaelcampwealth.com

Matt

X/Twitter - @matthew_garasic

unrivaledwm.com

Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and discussion about finance, investing, and related subjects. The content provided in this podcast is not intended as investment advice and should not be taken as such. Always seek the advice of a professional or conduct your own research before making financial decisions.

Rachael Camp offers advisory Services are offered through Creative Financial Designs, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser, and Securities are offered through cfd Investments, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA & SIPC, 2704 S. Goyer Rd., Kokomo, IN 46902. 765-453-9600.

Neither Camp Wealth or Unrivaled Wealth Management are affiliated with the CFD companies or each other.