Curious about the latest retirement updates and how to safeguard your finances in a digital world? In this engaging Thanksgiving episode of Dollars & Sense, hosts Joel Garris and Chet Cowart kick off with holiday traditions and a brief history of Thanksgiving, then dive into timely financial topics that matter to every listener. 

The episode covers newly announced 2026 contribution limits for 401ks and IRAs, including special catch-up options for those nearing retirement age. Joel and Chet break down the key differences between traditional and Roth IRAs, sharing actionable advice for making the most of your retirement savings—whether you’re just starting out or preparing for your golden years. 

Listeners also get a wake-up call about the billions lost in forgotten 401k accounts and learn practical strategies to track, consolidate, and grow their retirement funds. Plus, the show highlights the growing threat of AI-powered scams, revealing how deepfake technology is being used to impersonate financial icons like Warren Buffett. You’ll get essential tips to spot scam messages and protect your money from digital fraudsters. 

The hosts wrap up with a step-by-step guide to optimizing your savings—from building an emergency fund to leveraging HSAs and brokerage accounts. Whether you’re planning your first investment or revisiting your retirement strategy, this episode is packed with expert insights to help you secure 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

In this episode of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris and Kristin Castello, listeners get a front-row seat to a lively discussion on the latest government updates, major tax changes taking effect in 2025, and the crucial steps needed to prevent costly mistakes with retirement account beneficiaries. 

The show kicks off with the recent end of the government shutdown, playful banter about holiday travel and food benefits, and a spotlight on the team's annual food and toy drive. Joel and Kristin then break down the most impactful tax changes for the coming year, including a new $6,000 senior deduction, temporary exemptions for tips and overtime, expanded SALT deductions, and a car loan interest write-off. Clear income limits and practical advice make these updates easy to understand, and the hosts share candid insights about who benefits most and how to maximize your savings.
 
The episode’s second half zeroes in on retirement planning, focusing on how simple beneficiary mistakes can have dramatic financial consequences. Through real-life stories and actionable solutions, Joel and Kristin guide listeners through the top pitfalls—like neglecting beneficiary forms, naming estates instead of people, skipping contingent beneficiaries, and forgetting spousal waivers on 401(k)s. They emphasize the importance of regularly reviewing forms, keeping financial information organized, and preparing loved ones for the unexpected. 

Listeners walk away with a checklist of practical tips: review beneficiary forms, never name your estate, list both primary and contingent heirs, complete new paperwork when transferring accounts, and keep spouses and trusts properly documented. The hosts round out the episode with heartfelt marital and financial advice—reminding couples to share knowledge, stay organized, and plan ahead for peace of mind. 


💵 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

Welcome to this week’s Dollars & Sense episode with Joel Garris! Are you wondering if you should rent or buy in today’s crazy market? Or how AI is really reshaping the economy—and maybe even your job? In this video, Joel breaks down the biggest financial trends of the moment and gives you the tools to make smarter money moves. 

First up, Joel uncovers why corporate earnings are smashing expectations and how Amazon’s massive AI push could change the workforce as we know it. Is the AI hype the next tech bubble? Find out what you should be watching out for in your investment portfolio today! 

Then, we jump into the “Rent vs. Buy” debate. With homeownership at historic lows for young people and investing on the rise, Joel explains the pros and cons, the real numbers, and the emotional side of these decisions. Are you better off staying a renter and investing the difference, or does owning your home still build the most wealth? Tune in for the surprising truths—and what most people are getting wrong. 

Want actionable tips, expert insights, and honest answers to your biggest money questions? Watch now and get ahead of the curve! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you never miss an episode of Dollars & Sense! 


💵 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 of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris and Christina Lamb tackle two of the most pressing topics in personal finance: the power—and pitfalls—of leveraged ETFs, and the shifting wealth equation for young Americans deciding between renting or buying a home. Listeners will discover why leveraged exchange-traded funds can supercharge returns but demand careful strategy and constant attention, as Joel and Christina break down the pros, cons, and key takeaways for investors seeking higher stakes in the market. 

The discussion then pivots to the rent vs. buy debate, exploring whether investing your cash as a renter might outpace the long-term gains of homeownership. It’s a data-driven look at how rising housing costs, changing economic trends, and the influence of social media are reshaping wealth-building decisions for Gen Z and millennials. Joel and Christina share real-world numbers, highlight crucial tax differences, and offer practical advice on making the best choice for your financial situation and life goals. 

If you want to understand the risks and rewards of today’s investing landscape—from leveraged ETFs to smarter housing decisions—this episode delivers actionable insights and thought-provoking perspectives. Click to listen and discover how you can build wealth with confidence in a rapidly changing world! 


💵 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 of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris, listeners are treated to an insider’s perspective from a prestigious investment conference attended by just 100 select guests and hosted by one of the world’s largest asset managers. Joel kicks off with a deep dive into the hottest topic in finance—Artificial Intelligence (AI). He explores AI’s growing influence on investments, the labor market, and society, highlighting both its potential and the cautionary flags, such as possible overcapacity and the challenges it poses for younger generations. 

Joel then shifts focus to three major investment themes: the importance of national security in shaping investment decisions, the surge of private equity and private credit for everyday investors, and the need for careful portfolio allocation to avoid hidden overconcentration in growth stocks. 
Next, Joel breaks down everything you need to know about Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)—from recent changes in age requirements to smart strategies for minimizing tax impact, including withholding and charitable giving. Whether you’re nearing retirement or already enjoying it, this segment offers actionable advice to keep your finances on track. 

The episode also features a practical guide to Ladybird Deeds—an estate planning tool that helps homeowners transfer property to loved ones without the hassle of probate. Joel explains how Ladybird Deeds work, their advantages over traditional probate, and step-by-step instructions to implement this powerful tool. 

Rounding out the show, Joel reviews the latest market headlines, including a strong start to earnings season and how AI-driven efficiencies are helping corporate America outperform expectations. 

If you want to learn how AI is reshaping investments, the keys to managing your retirement withdrawals, and estate planning strategies that save time and money, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.


💵 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 can’t-miss episode of Dollars & Sense, hosts Joel Garris and Zach Keister tackle the timely topics reshaping America’s financial landscape. They kick off with a deep dive into tariffs—cutting through the headlines to reveal how the U.S. economy remains resilient, why the actual costs may be less than you think, and what you can do to protect your portfolio.

Next, they demystify the Great Wealth Transfer, exposing the gap between Gen Z’s inheritance expectations and the realities Baby Boomers face, from rising healthcare costs to shifting family values. You’ll hear practical advice and real-life stories that show how open conversations and professional planning can make all the difference. 

Joel and Zach also explore the dynamics of staggered retirement—why most couples don’t retire at the same time, the financial benefits and emotional hurdles involved, and actionable strategies to help partners plan for this new reality. Drawing on client experiences and their “Next Gen Dollars and Sense” workbook, they share tips to help listeners budget smarter, communicate better, and turn uncertainty into opportunity. 

Whether you’re worried about market volatility, planning for inheritance, or figuring out retirement timing with your spouse, this episode delivers step-by-step solutions, expert insights, and engaging banter.  


💵 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 of Dollars & Sense, host Joel Garris breaks down the critical steps to "die better"—or at least be better prepared—by mastering the essentials of estate planning. Drawing from Chapter 19, "Death: The Other Certainty," of the Next Gen Dollars and Sense book, Joel shares practical advice to help listeners avoid common estate planning pitfalls and protect their loved ones. The episode highlights the different ways property transfers after death, including operation of law, operation of contract, and wills, explaining how each impacts your financial legacy. 

Listeners will discover tips on titling property, the importance of beneficiary designations, and strategies for making the process smoother, such as using Transfer on Death (TOD) or Payable on Death (POD) addenda and understanding the use of ladybird deeds. With real-life scenarios and actionable guidance, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to take control of their financial future and ensure their wishes are honored. Tune in to learn how proactive estate planning can ease the burden for your family and spark meaningful conversations around the holidays! 


💵 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

n this episode of Dollars & Sense, hosts Kristin Castello and Chet Cowart dive into the hottest topics shaping your retirement future, including the latest proposed changes to 401k investment options and critical updates to catch-up contributions for those aged 50 and above. If you’re curious about how alternative investments like crypto and private equity might soon enter your 401k, or how upcoming tax regulations could affect high earners, this episode has the answers you need to stay ahead. 
Kristin and Chet break down three main topics: 

• Alternative Investments in 401ks: The current administration’s push to add new choices to your 401k sounds appealing, but comes with risks, fees, and potential complications. Learn how these changes could impact your account—and what history has taught us about “too good to be true” investments. 

• Major Tax Changes for High Earners: Starting in 2026, those earning $145,000 or more must put catch-up contributions in Roth accounts, losing some valuable tax deductions. Find out who’s affected, what loopholes exist, and how to plan ahead to avoid nasty surprises on your tax bill. 

• Consolidating Retirement Accounts: Should you roll your old 401ks and IRAs together? Get practical advice on direct transfers vs. 60-day rollovers, when consolidation makes sense, and which exceptions to watch out for—plus real-world client stories to illustrate what could go right or wrong. 

With lively banter, relatable client examples, and clear calls to action, Kristin and Chet make complex financial changes easy to understand—and actionable. Whether you’re nearing retirement, a high earner facing new rules, or just looking to simplify your finances, you’ll come away with smarter strategies for protecting your nest egg. 

Ready to take control of your retirement? Click to listen, get expert insights, and discover how Dollars & Sense can help you make the most of every opportunity—no matter where you are in your financial journey. 


💵 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 engaging episode of Dollars & Sense with Joel Garris, listeners are taken on a journey through the fascinating world of old paper stock certificates and the essential steps to cashing in on these historical treasures. Did you know there could still be $780 billion in forgotten paper stocks out there? Joel explains how to uncover their value, navigate the process of redeeming them, and avoid leaving money on the table. 

The conversation then shifts to the dream of early retirement. Joel breaks down the real-life factors that determine whether you can retire sooner than expected—including maintaining good health, managing family financial obligations, boosting your savings rate, diversifying your income streams, and eliminating debt. Through client stories and practical advice, he reveals how small steps today can lead to a comfortable tomorrow. 

But that’s not all—this episode also unpacks the rising risks in today’s stock market. Joel highlights how market concentration in tech and AI, along with the dangers of groupthink, could threaten your portfolio. He stresses the importance of diversification and regularly reviewing your risk profile to avoid unexpected pitfalls. 

Ready to discover hidden wealth, take charge of your retirement, and protect your investments? Tune in to this episode of Dollars & Sense for insights you won’t want to miss! 


💵 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 of Dollars & Sense, Joel Garris and Rob Field take listeners on a practical journey through two crucial areas that impact your wallet—Medicare Advantage and the financial aftermath of divorce. Joel shares real-life insights about enrolling in Medicare Advantage plans, revealing common myths, what to watch out for during the enrollment period, and how to avoid costly mistakes. The duo also dives into the often-overlooked pitfalls of divorce finances, outlining typical errors like overspending, missing hidden assets, and letting emotions drive decisions. 

With relatable stories and expert advice, Joel and Rob break down why it pays to be proactive in both your healthcare and financial planning. If you want to learn how to protect your assets, sidestep common traps, and get the most out of your hard-earned money, click to listen and discover how to make smarter, more confident choices for your 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