On this episode of The Capitalist Investor, hosts Tony Zabiegala and Derek Gabrielsen unpack the rise of thematic investing. From meme stocks and AI ETFs to clean energy and crypto, investors are piling into trendy themes hoping to “get rich now.” 

But is thematic investing a smart long-term strategy — or just a dangerous distraction? Tony and Derek explore the psychology driving this movement, the risks of chasing hype, how to evaluate ETFs, and why balanced portfolios still matter most. 

👉 Got questions or want to discuss your investment strategy? Email us at [email protected]

On this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony Zabiegala is joined by Dave Abate to tackle the dangerous “one-size-fits-all” advice that floods financial media—from TV personalities to radio shows and podcasts. 

They break down three of the most common myths they hear from clients: 

• Annuities that promise 8–9% returns
• Fear-based Medicaid planning strategies that can destroy your retirement plan
• Hot tips about crypto, gold, and stocks that sound exciting—but rarely make sense in a real portfolio

Tony and Dave share the behind-the-scenes truth about how these recommendations are sold to the public and why you need a personalized strategy built around your specific goals—not media hype.
 
They also share their “apple pie” analogy that simplifies how real planning works.
 
🎯 Have a financial idea you’ve been pitched recently? Bring it to your advisor before you implement it.
 
📬 Questions or topic ideas? Email [email protected]

The 60/40 portfolio (60% stocks, 40% bonds) has been called everything from the cornerstone of retirement planning to a relic of the past. With the Fed signaling multiple rate cuts, could bonds finally regain their place in balanced portfolios?

In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony Zabiegala and Derek Gabrielsen discuss the history of the 60/40 model, why bonds collapsed in 2022, and whether alternatives like private credit, real estate, and annuities deserve a spot in your retirement plan. They also share practical strategies for creating a custom portfolio that aligns with your income needs and risk tolerance.

In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, we reveal three powerful investment strategies used by top-tier financial planning firms to help build diversified, long-term wealth—beyond stocks and bonds.

These are not your typical 401(k) options. We break down:

How private credit can deliver treasury-like risk with higher yield

Why private real estate (not your average REITs) can provide steady income and long-term stability

The power of private equity and how it can scale businesses behind the scenes

Whether you’re a high-net-worth investor or looking to build smarter retirement strategies, this episode covers what most advisors don’t tell you—because they can’t offer these investments.

📧 Got questions or topic ideas? Email us: [email protected]

#PrivateEquity #PrivateCredit #AlternativeInvestments #WealthStrategy #FinancialPlanning

Ohio’s move to a flat tax is making headlines, but the real story is what it means for your money. In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Mark and Tony explore how this shift could impact business owners, high-income earners, and retirees—and why it might open the door to smarter tax planning.

From reducing tax drag to creating new opportunities for portfolio growth, we’ll show you how to turn a policy change into a financial advantage.

👉 CTA: If you’ve got $3M+ invested and haven’t reviewed your tax strategy lately, it’s time. Feel free to email us at [email protected] for more information.

Is crypto becoming too regulated to be worth the risk—or is government oversight exactly what it needs? In this episode, Derek and guest host Dave break down the recently passed GENIUS Act and its impact on the future of cryptocurrency, from stablecoins and decentralization to government regulation and retirement planning. They explore whether retirees (and pre-retirees) should still consider crypto in their financial plans—and how to think about crypto beyond just Bitcoin. Plus, tips on how to get started without betting the farm. 

Retirement isn’t just about reaching the finish line—it’s about making sure your money lasts as long as you do. In this week’s episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek break down five critical retirement moves that often get overlooked:

✅ Recheck your withdrawal strategy
 ✅ Lock in healthcare coverage costs
 ✅ Review and adjust your tax strategy
 ✅ Simplify and consolidate accounts
 ✅ Establish a realistic monthly spending plan. 

Plus, they wrap things up with their picks for this year’s British Open. 

If you’re in or approaching retirement, this episode covers real-life insights and strategies to help you stay on track. 

🔗 Have a question or show idea? Email us: [email protected]
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In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek dig into a hot economic debate: Are tariffs inflationary or deflationary? They break down the political and economic implications of Trump’s proposed tariff policies, explore historical lessons, and discuss which industries are most likely to win or lose.

Then, the guys shift gears to tackle a listener question about the “Big Beautiful Bill” and whether it actually helps retirees. Spoiler: If you’re under 65 or earning over a certain threshold, don’t expect much help.

You’ll also hear some real talk on:

Made in America vs. cheap imports

Why the market isn’t panicking (yet)

Tomato inflation?!

Who actually pays for tariffs—and how it could affect your wallet

Whether you’re a business owner, investor, or someone trying to make sense of the headlines, this episode delivers a no-fluff, practical look at what really matters for your financial future.

📩 Got questions? Email the show at [email protected]

This week on The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek ask a big question: Can Gen X really retire? From inflation and rising healthcare costs to underfunded savings and Social Security uncertainty, they break down the biggest threats to the 45–60-year-old crowd’s financial future.

They also dive into how pop culture has influenced Gen X's spending habits, the impact of Trump headlines on the market, and a few favorite things from their week. As always, it's real talk, practical insight, and a few hot takes you won’t want to miss.

📩 Got a question or a topic idea? Email us at [email protected]

#GenX #Retirement #Investing #SocialSecurity #CapitalistInvestor #FinancialPlanning

On this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek break down the 5 most common financial mistakes they see from DIY investors—and why avoiding professional guidance can cost you big time in the long run. From waiting too long to save, to misusing your 401(k), to failing to plan for taxes and estate issues, they walk through how each mistake impacts retirement.

They also share real-world case studies, client stories, and practical strategies to help you avoid these traps. Whether you’re just starting out or closing in on retirement, this episode will help you rethink your financial strategy with clarity and confidence.

📩 Got questions? Reach out at [email protected]