Join Joel Garris and Chet Cowart on this week’s episode of Dollars & Sense as they take you courtside for a lively discussion that fuses the excitement of March Madness with the intensity of today's financial headlines. This episode dives into the "private credit squeeze"—how hot new investment products can quickly go from hype to headache, and why liquidity and transparency matter more than ever. 

The hosts break down what private credit is, how it’s become the latest Wall Street darling, and why even big-name fund managers are feeling the pressure as investors clamor to cash out. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just curious about these trending products, you’ll learn the risks and realities behind the glossy sales pitches and limited withdrawal policies. 

In the second half, Joel and Chet tackle the buzz surrounding a "totally tax-free retirement." Are those seminar promises too good to be true? Get the real story on Roth conversions, backdoor IRAs, and why tax planning isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. They share real-world examples, highlight common pitfalls, and offer guidance for anyone considering major moves with their retirement savings. 

Plus, enjoy some fun NCAA tournament banter, insights on the changing landscape of college sports and NIL money, and practical advice for making smarter financial decisions—no matter what the headlines say. 

• Understanding the private credit squeeze: hype vs. reality 

• What limited liquidity means for your portfolio 

• The facts (and fine print) about achieving a tax-free retirement 

• Why individualized planning beats blanket advice every time 

Don’t let market trends or eye-catching ads dictate your financial future. Tune in for a winning playbook on navigating today’s investment landscape! 


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

Unlock Savings, Outsmart Scammers, and Take Control of Your Taxes 

Ready to make your taxes work for you—and not just for Uncle Sam? Join us for a deep dive into the tax credits millions of Americans overlook every year, costing them real money. We break down what credits matter most, how simple life changes—like saving for retirement, child care, and home improvements—can put cash back in your pocket, and why planning ahead is your strongest tool. 

But we don’t stop there: Tax season is a prime time for scammers, and they’re getting more sophisticated. Discover the five most common scams circulating this year—from IRS impersonators and fake refund offers to ghost preparers and phony charities. We share actionable steps to protect your identity, your refund, and your peace of mind. 

Whether you’re a busy professional, retiree, or small business owner, this episode gives you the knowledge and confidence to maximize your savings, avoid costly mistakes, and stay safe. Tune in, take notes, and share with someone you care about—because awareness is the best defense we have. 


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

This week’s episode of Dollars & Sense dives into the headlines shaking up the financial world—from the U.S. and Israel’s military action in Iran and rising oil prices to the launch of new “Trump accounts” for minors and the dreaded IRMAA Medicare adjustments. Joel Garris and Rob Field break down the immediate market reactions, share personal stories (including a real-life gas price dilemma), and offer practical, calm action steps for investors facing uncertainty. Learn how historical market shocks recover, why diversification beats prediction every time, and what you need to know about setting up Trump accounts for your kids—including how to snag up to $1,000 free from the government. Plus, get expert insight on IRMAA: how your income can unexpectedly bump up Medicare premiums and shrink your Social Security check—along with proactive tips to avoid getting caught off guard. 

Whether you’re worried about your portfolio, planning for your child’s financial future, or wondering how to navigate Medicare surcharges, this episode is packed with timely advice and actionable strategies. Tune in for relatable stories, clear explanations, and a holistic approach to making sense of your dollars in uncertain times. Don’t miss out—your financial peace of mind might be just one listen away. 


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

Ready to safeguard your finances and make confident life transitions? In this must-listen episode of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris, Joel dives into two of today’s most important money topics: protecting yourself from modern scams and preparing for a move to a retirement care community. 

🔒Outsmarting Scammers & Protecting Your Data 
Have you ever received official-looking letters, texts, or emails trying to charge you for services you can easily (and cheaply) do yourself? Joel kicks off the episode with real stories from the front lines, exposing common business formation scams and revealing why independent verification is your best defense. Learn practical ways to protect your money and personal data from increasingly sophisticated scammers—plus, what simple actions you can take today to avoid becoming a victim. 

🏡 Financial Readiness for Retirement Community Living 
Thinking about moving into a retirement care community, or helping a loved one with this transition? Joel walks you through the essential financial checklist for a stress-free move. From understanding your full financial picture to comparing costs, planning for taxes, updating your legal documents, and more—get the step-by-step guidance to make smart, confident choices for your next big chapter. 

👉 Whether you’re starting a business, moving into a new life stage, or just want to keep your hard-earned money safe, this episode is packed with actionable advice you can use right now. 

• How scammers target new business owners—and how to spot the tricks 

• Three key habits to keep your identity and assets secure in the digital age 

• The 8 financial steps to take before moving to a retirement care community 

• Tips on tax planning, legal documents, and navigating changing expenses 

 


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

Understanding the Human Side of Financial Decisions 

Join Certified Financial Fiduciaries™ Zach Keister and Christina Lamb for an eye-opening episode of Dollars & Sense that dives deep into the psychology of money. This isn't about spreadsheets—it's about the emotions, habits, and mindsets that shape your financial life. 

Discover why even smart people make puzzling money choices, and learn how your upbringing, mental wiring, and social comparisons influence your financial behaviors. From procrastinating on taxes to feeling envy or guilt when scrolling social media, Zach and Christina break down common cognitive biases—like loss aversion and present bias—and offer relatable stories (including a Monopoly experiment!) to show how these play out in real life. 

Get practical with 5 actionable tools to rewire your financial habits: 

• Automate your savings and bills for less stress 

• Create simple money rituals to reduce avoidance 

• Reframe your money story for a healthier mindset 

• Add friction to overspending and remove it from positive habits 

• Seek accountability and professional support when needed 

Walk away with strategies to break the anxiety–avoidance loop, resist emotional overspending, and counteract the pressure of social comparison. Whether you're just starting out or looking to strengthen your financial foundation, this episode will help you see your money life as a relationship you can nurture and improve—no shame, just progress.


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

With gold and silver surging to eye-catching highs, Joel unpacks whether now is really the right time to jump in. Get the unvarnished truth about the risks and realities of investing in gold and silver, including their historical track record, the costs that often go overlooked, and why they’re not always the golden ticket to wealth the headlines might suggest. Discover how herd mentality, FOMO, and social media hype can drive prices—and why long-term results often tell a different story. 

But that’s not all—this episode empowers you with a practical checklist of essential questions to ask your financial advisor. Joel breaks down the crucial topics: understanding all the fees you’re paying, ensuring your advisor acts as a fiduciary, grasping their investment philosophy and track record, and knowing how they’ll communicate with you through the market’s ups and downs. These questions are designed to help you build a true partnership and make well-informed decisions about your financial future. 

Whether you’re a seasoned investor, just getting started, or simply curious about the latest trends in money management, this episode promises valuable insights, clear explanations, and actionable advice. Tune in to sharpen your financial acumen and make sense of your dollars—plus, find out how you can connect with Joel and his team for further guidance. 

Listen now to get the facts, cut through the hype, and take charge of your finances with confidence! 


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

In this episode, Rob Field and Chet Cowart explore the parallels between training for a marathon and investing for the future, emphasizing how each investor's personal goals and circumstances shape their approach. They begin by discussing recent market trends and how growth over the past few years has affected different age groups. 

The hosts highlight the importance of investment goal-setting, comparing strategies for those nearing retirement to those still building their wealth. Younger investors typically seek maximum growth and are more tolerant of market volatility, viewing downturns as opportunities to buy. In contrast, those closer to retirement prioritize safety and income, often shifting toward bonds and cash to preserve capital and generate steady income. 

Field and Cowart also tackle topics such as portfolio construction, risk tolerance, and the differing roles of income and Social Security. They note that Social Security is funded by younger workers and question its future viability as workforce demographics shift and more people delay retirement. The conversation includes recent trends, such as a decrease in workers under 25 and factors influencing workforce participation since the pandemic. 

The episode offers valuable insights into lessons investors often wish they had learned earlier, including the power of savings and compounding, the importance of starting early, managing debt, automating investments, and developing disciplined financial habits. The hosts stress the significance of honest self-assessment, patience, and flexibility—much like training for a marathon. 

Concluding, Rob and Chet reiterate that successful investing is about time, setting clear goals, and understanding one’s risk tolerance. They encourage listeners to approach their financial journey with a long-term perspective, realistic expectations, and sustainable habits. 


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

Join hosts Joel Garris and Zach Keister on this action-packed episode of Dollars & Sense as they break down the fast-paced start to 2026. Discover why the stock market’s leadership is changing, what the “Mag 7” becoming the “Fab 4” means for your investments, and how early signs of broad market participation could reshape your portfolio. The duo tackles interest rates, the latest moves from the Federal Reserve, and what falling mortgage rates mean for buyers. 

But it’s not just about markets—Joel and Zach dive into the five financial lies people keep telling themselves, from “I have a budget” to “I don’t know why I’m always broke.” They share practical steps to build a real emergency fund, track your spending, and take control of your financial future. If you’ve ever wondered why your money seems to disappear, this segment is a must-listen! 

The show wraps up with a look at the $4.6 trillion real-estate wealth transfer—from Baby Boomers to Gen X and Millennials—that’s already changing housing and family planning.

Whether you’re considering buying property for your kids, downsizing, or inheriting a home, you’ll get expert insights on how to structure these moves and avoid common pitfalls. 

Tune in to hear how market trends, personal finance habits, and generational shifts are converging in 2026—and what it means for you. 


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

In this compelling episode of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris, the show dives deep into two urgent financial realities that could reshape your future: the explosion of ultra-long car loans and a retirement crisis few see coming—not about money, but about meaning. 

First, Joel tackles the “100-month car loan” phenomenon, revealing how soaring auto prices and sky-high average payments (now topping $750/month) are forcing families into unprecedented debt traps. He breaks down common mistakes—like focusing only on monthly payments or stretching loan terms to buy pricier vehicles—and offer smart, actionable strategies: buying used, choosing shorter loans, and planning purchases to protect your budget and future. 

Then, the show pivots to a powerful, rarely discussed retirement crisis: the loss of mattering. Joel illuminates why financial and health planning alone aren’t enough and explores the emotional gap retirees face when work—and the sense of being needed—ends. You’ll hear research-backed insights into why building a new sense of purpose, connection, and significance is the real key to a happy, resilient retirement. 

Plus, the episode unpacks the hidden financial blind spots that overwhelm grieving spouses, from surprise debts and locked accounts to the dreaded “widow’s penalty” tax shock. Joel shares practical steps you can take today to protect your spouse and yourself, ensuring clarity and stability during life’s toughest moments. 

If you want to avoid costly financial pitfalls and ensure your next chapter is not just secure—but meaningful—this episode is a must-listen.  


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202

Curious how the latest tax law updates and retirement plan changes will impact your wallet in 2026? This week on Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris and Christina Lamb cut through the confusion and deliver essential information every American family and high-income earner needs to know—no jargon, just actionable insights and clear examples. 

First, Christina revisits the Top 10 Tax Changes for 2026—and then dives deeper into two big updates the team didn’t get to last week: the newly indexed Child Tax Credit (now rising with inflation!) and the fresh cap on itemized deductions for high earners. Listeners learn exactly what’s changing, who is affected, and how to maximize their tax strategy under the new rules. Step-by-step action tips help you avoid costly surprises, keep more of your money, and strategize for the year ahead. 

The discussion then shifts to a retirement game-changer: the new Roth 401(k) catch-up contribution requirement for high-income earners aged 50+. If you’re used to socking away extra retirement dollars pre-tax, you’ll want to hear how the new rules could raise your tax bill—and why, for many, it’s still smart to keep contributing. The segment unpacks who must comply, plan differences, and the pros and cons of Roth vs. traditional contributions. Plus, Joel and Christina walk you through critical “what to do now” steps so you don’t get caught off guard, from checking your plan options to coordinating with your tax advisor. 

Finally, the episode wraps up with practical guidance for all listeners: review your eligibility for credits and deductions, start planning early, and remember that smart tax and retirement strategies can make a huge difference by year’s end. Joel and Christina’s friendly, down-to-earth approach makes even complex topics feel manageable—and maybe even a little fun. 

Ready to get ahead of the 2026 tax and retirement changes? Don’t miss out—tune in now to Dollars & Sense and take control of your financial future! 


💵 About Dollars & Sense: 💵
Hosted by Joel Garris, a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning, Dollars & Sense is one of Central Florida’s longest-running radio programs and a top 25 financial planning podcast. Each week, Joel and his team provide expert insights to help you make sense of all your financial decisions. 

👉 Visit our website: nelsonfinancialplanning.com for more resources and to connect with our team of Certified Financial Fiduciaries.

About Joel Garris:
Joel Garris is a Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary at Nelson Financial Planning. He’s dedicated to providing comprehensive financial advice to help you achieve your retirement goals. With a team of expert advisors, Nelson Financial Planning is committed to delivering personalized and effective retirement and financial planning solutions.

➡️ CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: /NelsonFinancialPlanning
Twitter: /nelsonfinplan
Instagram: /nelson_financial_planning
YouTube: @nelsonfinancialplanning2202