Michael and Brady sit down with powerhouse family law attorney Sabreena Barboza to uncover the often-overlooked financial consequences of separation. From understanding the difference between marital and separate property to navigating business valuations, debt division, child support, and alimony, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone facing or considering divorce. Whether you're a high-earning professional, a business owner, or simply want to protect your financial future, Sabreena delivers the legal clarity and practical steps you need to prepare, plan, and move forward with confidence.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Debt, secrecy, and financial infidelity

(04:00) - Communication and joint money management

(05:00) - Sentiment around debt and marriage

(08:00) - Types of divorce clients and complexity by age

(11:00) - Marital vs. separate property explained

(15:00) - Homemaker vs. working spouse considerations

(16:00) - Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs)

(20:00) - Divorce impact on business partners

(24:00) - Alimony, cash flow, and income disparities

(27:00) - Equalization of income in long-term marriages

(32:00) - Child support calculators and tax implications

(39:00) - Cost, time, and emotional toll of divorce

(43:00) - When the court rejects unfair agreements

(46:00) - Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, Financial Guidance for High Earners, Smart Money Moves for High-Income Professionals, Tax, Wealth & Investment Strategies for Top Earners, Financial Planning for Doctors, Lawyers & Execs, Wealth Management Tips for High-Income Earners, Expert Advice on Taxes, Investing & Growing Wealth, High Earner Money Talk, Financial Wisdom for 6-Figure+ Entrepreneurs, Smart Strategies for Managing High Income

Money, Taxes & Freedom for High-Earning Professionals, The Dave Ramsey Show, BiggerPockets Podcast, The Motley Fool Money Show, We Study Billionaires, ChooseFI, Afford Anything, Divorce financial planning, Business valuation in divorce, Marital vs separate property, Alimony and child support laws, Debt division in divorce

Mentions:

Sabreena’s Website: https://www.sbarbozalaw.com/ 

Sabreena’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabreena-barboza-815959168 

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

Article: https://www.cnbc.com/select/national-debt-relief-survey-debt-reason-for-divorce/

Article: https://www.investmentnews.com/ria-news/financial-infidelity-credit-card-debt-behind-one-third-of-divorces/249211

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice.  Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own.  Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. All investments and investment strategies contain risk and may lose value. 

Michael Acosta is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 6115 PARK SOUTH DRIVE, SUITE 200, CHARLOTTE NC, 28210, 704-5528507. Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. Genesis Wealth Planning is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. CA Insurance License # 0M50974. 7237198.17. Expiration 9-27.

What does it really mean to feel wealthy? Michael and Brady dive into the emotional side of money, exploring why so many high earners still feel financially insecure despite their income and assets. Sparked by Charles Schwab’s latest Modern Wealth Report, the hosts unpack the surprising disconnect between being rich and feeling wealthy, challenge the popular $2.6 million "retirement number," and reveal how mindset, behavior, and personal values shape true financial contentment. Whether you’re approaching retirement or simply wondering if you're on track, this episode will shift how you think about money, fulfillment, and the power of intentional planning.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - The $2.6 million “wealthy” number explained

(03:00) - Emotional math vs. bank account balance

(06:00) - Feeling rich vs. feeling wealthy

(08:00) - Redefining wealth: health, relationships, and happiness

(10:00) - Permission to spend: emotional barriers to enjoying money

(13:00) - Coaching clients to redefine retirement goals

(16:00) - Accumulation vs. decumulation phases

(18:00) - Lifestyle choices, debt, and financial independence

(21:00) - Better questions to ask your financial advisor

(28:00) - Principal and interest vs. 4% withdrawal strategy

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, Financial Guidance for High Earners, Smart Money Moves for High-Income Professionals, Tax, Wealth & Investment Strategies for Top Earners, Financial Planning for Doctors, Lawyers & Execs, Wealth Management Tips for High-Income Earners, Expert Advice on Taxes, Investing & Growing Wealth, High Earner Money Talk, Financial Wisdom for 6-Figure+ Entrepreneurs, Smart Strategies for Managing High Income

Money, Taxes & Freedom for High-Earning Professionals, The Dave Ramsey Show, BiggerPockets Podcast, The Motley Fool Money Show, We Study Billionaires, ChooseFI, Afford Anything, Feel wealthy vs. be wealthy, Charles Schwab Modern Wealth Report, Financial independence mindset, Retirement planning strategies, Emotional side of money

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

Article: https://www.thinkadvisor.com/2025/07/09/heres-how-much-money-it-takes-to-feel-wealthy-schwab/

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice.  Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own.  Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. All investments and investment strategies contain risk and may lose value. 

Michael Acosta is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 6115 PARK SOUTH DRIVE, SUITE 200, CHARLOTTE NC, 28210, 704-5528507. Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. Genesis Wealth Planning is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. CA Insurance License # 0M50974. 7237198.16. Expiration 8-27.

Michael and Brady break down the essential financial roadmap every new resident, fellow, or newly attending physician needs. From managing lifestyle creep and student loan strategy to protecting your most valuable asset, your ability to earn, this episode is the guide you wish you had straight out of med school. Whether you're transitioning from medical school to residency or residency to attending, this conversation offers a clear, actionable framework to help you build wealth with confidence, clarity, and control. If you're a medical professional ready to take charge of your financial future, this one’s for you.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Transitioning from medical school to residency

(03:05) - Jumping from residency to attending salary

(04:54) - Three common financial profiles of new physicians

(07:00) - Salary ranges by specialty and geography

(08:55) - Lifestyle creep and financial risks

(12:20) - Starting with a cash flow analysis

(13:45) - Leveraging your early income for wealth building

(15:27) - Dangers of overindulgence after residency

(17:10) - Hidden risks despite high attending salaries

(18:20) - De-risking your balance sheet

(20:35) - Unique risk factors for medical professionals

(25:55) - Understanding tiers of liquidity

(30:12) - Physician burnout and optionality

(31:50) - Planning to live debt-free

(35:22) - Income-driven repayment and PSLF strategy

(39:05) - Strategic payoff vs. emotional payoff

(41:20) - Prioritizing toxic debt in financial triage

(45:33) - New student loan legislation highlights

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, Financial Guidance for High Earners, Smart Money Moves for High-Income Professionals, Tax, Wealth & Investment Strategies for Top Earners, Financial Planning for Doctors, Lawyers & Execs, Wealth Management Tips for High-Income Earners, Expert Advice on Taxes, Investing & Growing Wealth, High Earner Money Talk, Financial Wisdom for 6-Figure+ Entrepreneurs, Smart Strategies for Managing High Income

Money, Taxes & Freedom for High-Earning Professionals, The Dave Ramsey Show, BiggerPockets Podcast, The Motley Fool Money Show, We Study Billionaires, ChooseFI, Afford Anything, Financial planning for physicians, Student loan strategies for doctors, Transitioning from residency to attending, Physician wealth building tips, Medical professional financial advice

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice.  Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own.  Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. All investments and investment strategies contain risk and may lose value. 

Michael Acosta is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 6115 PARK SOUTH DRIVE, SUITE 200, CHARLOTTE NC, 28210, 704-5528507. Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. Genesis Wealth Planning is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. CA Insurance License # 0M50974. 7237198.15. Expiration 8-27.

When life throws an unexpected curveball, job loss, medical crisis, or the AC goes out in the middle of July, will your finances strike out or stand strong? Michael and Brady break down the often-overlooked cornerstone of a resilient financial plan: your emergency fund, or as they call it, your "life events fund." From smart strategies for building liquidity to leveraging backup tools like credit lines and Roth IRAs, they reveal how to turn chaos into control. With real-life client stories, actionable frameworks, and powerful analogies, this episode is your playbook for weathering the financial storms that will come. Prepare today so tomorrow doesn’t catch you off guard.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Why investors and high earners need liquidity

(10:00) - Life events fund vs. emergency fund

(15:00) - Liquidity backups: credit cards, HELOCs, Roth IRAs

(19:00) - 401(k) loans and accessing retirement funds

(22:00) - Budgeting vs. transferring risk

(24:00) - Disability and job loss planning with insurance

(27:00) - DIY planning and the value of decision trees

(29:00) - Cash flow chaos plans and budget cuts

(31:00) - Coordinating planning with your partner

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, Financial Guidance for High Earners, Smart Money Moves for High-Income Professionals, Tax, Wealth & Investment Strategies for Top Earners, Financial Planning for Doctors, Lawyers & Execs, Wealth Management Tips for High-Income Earners, Expert Advice on Taxes, Investing & Growing Wealth, High Earner Money Talk, Financial Wisdom for 6-Figure+ Entrepreneurs, Smart Strategies for Managing High Income Money, Taxes & Freedom for High-Earning Professionals, The Dave Ramsey Show, BiggerPockets Podcast, The Motley Fool Money Show, We Study Billionaires, ChooseFI, Afford Anything

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

NerdWallet’s Best Savings Accounts: https://www.nerdwallet.com/best/banking/savings-accounts?msockid=3ddb198c15df6ab502ef0a8914486b41

Where Should My Next Dollar Go?: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ovF3AEiq63aXgiDo5MqzXqYkM4LATOso/view?usp=drive_link

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice.  Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own.  Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. All investments and investment strategies contain risk and may lose value. 

Michael Acosta is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 6115 PARK SOUTH DRIVE, SUITE 200, CHARLOTTE NC, 28210, 704-5528507. Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. Genesis Wealth Planning is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. CA Insurance License # 0M50974. 7237198.14. Expiration 8-27.

Forget everything you thought you knew about annuities. Michael and Brady unpack the modern annuity revolution, how today’s annuities have evolved from the high-fee, complex products of the past into strategic financial tools designed to reduce retirement anxiety and boost income certainty. From personal pensions to market-buffered investment strategies, they explore the real-world applications and common misconceptions surrounding annuities. Whether you're decades away from retirement or planning to exit the workforce soon, this episode delivers critical insights to help you confidently build a purpose-driven retirement income plan.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - The decline of pensions and rise of 401(k)s

(09:00) - Employer vs. employee retirement risk

(11:00) - Emotional benefits of guaranteed income

(15:00) - What exactly is an annuity?

(21:00) - When income-focused annuities make sense

(23:00) - Growth-focused annuities for young investors

(25:00) - The role of registered index-linked annuities (RILAs)

(32:00) - RILAs vs. traditional fixed income

(38:00) - Replacing income gaps with personal pensions

(45:00) - Balancing investment and insurance strategies

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, The Dave Ramsey Show, BiggerPockets Podcast, The Motley Fool Money Show, We Study Billionaires, ChooseFI, Afford Anything, Modern annuities explained, Retirement income strategies, Guaranteed lifetime income, Personal pension planning, Annuities vs 401(k) comparison

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice.  Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own.  Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. All investments and investment strategies contain risk and may lose value. 

Michael Acosta is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 6115 PARK SOUTH DRIVE, SUITE 200, CHARLOTTE NC, 28210, 704-5528507. Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. Genesis Wealth Planning is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. CA Insurance License # 0M50974. 7237198.13. Expiration 8-27.

Michael and Brady dive into one of the most misunderstood yet increasingly leveraged financial tools for high earners and investors, the Securities-Backed Line of Credit (SBLOC). Is it a smart strategy to unlock liquidity without triggering taxes, or a risky move that could backfire in volatile markets? Whether you’re navigating emergency funding, eyeing a new investment opportunity, or building a financial moat around your wealth, this episode breaks down everything you need to know about SBLOCs — how they work, when to use them, the risks involved, and how to make them a powerful piece of your planning arsenal. Don't miss this insightful conversation designed to help you think smarter about accessing capital while keeping your portfolio intact.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - What is a Securities-Backed Line of Credit?

(03:00) - Comparison to a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)

(06:00) - Key differences in setup: HELOC vs. SBLOC

(10:00) - Tax implications and investment preservation

(12:00) - Preserving portfolio value with SBLOC

(14:00) - Impact of portfolio growth on line of credit

(16:00) - Risks of withdrawing during down markets

(21:00) - SOFR rate and tiered interest costs

(23:00) - Strategic planning for loans and purchases

(25:00) - Using SBLOCs during market downturns

(26:00) - Protecting against emotional investing

(29:00) - When to consult an advisor or CPA

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, The Dave Ramsey Show, BiggerPockets Podcast, The Motley Fool Money Show, We Study Billionaires, ChooseFI, Afford Anything, Securities-Backed Line of Credit, SBLOC investment strategy, Tax-efficient borrowing, Portfolio-backed lending, Liquidity without selling assets

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice.  Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own.  Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. All investments and investment strategies contain risk and may lose value. 

Michael Acosta is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 6115 PARK SOUTH DRIVE, SUITE 200, CHARLOTTE NC, 28210, 704-5528507. Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. Genesis Wealth Planning is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. CA Insurance License # 0M50974. 7237198.12. Expiration 8-27.

Michael and Brady dive headfirst into one of the most debated financial decisions of our time: renting vs. buying. With candid personal stories, professional insight, and a side-by-side breakdown of the emotional and mathematical realities, they unpack what truly makes sense for young professionals, growing families, and everyone caught in the housing dilemma. Whether you're saving for your first down payment or wondering if you missed the boat, this episode delivers clarity, strategy, and perspective you won’t want to miss.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Michael’s first home purchase story

(05:00) - Emotional and financial motivations for buying

(07:00) - Turning a home into an income-generating asset

(09:00) - Hidden costs and discomfort of first-year ownership

(13:00) - Brady’s experience and reasons for renting

(18:00) - Challenges of saving while renting

(22:00) - Market conditions, timing, and lifestyle alignment

(26:00) - Charlotte housing market appreciation stats

(31:00) - Rent vs. buy cost analysis setup

(39:00) - Comparing net worth: equity vs. liquidity

(44:00) - What renters must do to keep pace financially

(48:00) - Roommate strategy to reduce mortgage burden

(51:00) - Generational differences in housing mindset

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, The Dave Ramsey Show, BiggerPockets Podcast, The Motley Fool Money Show, We Study Billionaires, ChooseFI, Afford Anything, Renting vs Buying a Home, Homeownership Financial Planning, Real Estate Investment Strategy, First-Time Home Buyer Advice, Building Wealth Through Real Estate

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

Rent vs. Buy Calculator: https://www.nerdwallet.com/calculator/rent-vs-buy-calculator 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice.  Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own.  Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. All investments and investment strategies contain risk and may lose value. 

Michael Acosta is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 6115 PARK SOUTH DRIVE, SUITE 200, CHARLOTTE NC, 28210, 704-5528507. Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. Genesis Wealth Planning is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. CA Insurance License # 0M50974. 7237198.11. Expiration 7-27.

Michael and Brady confront a challenge many retirees face but few openly talk about: when peace of mind outweighs the numbers on a spreadsheet. Is your aging car a financial liability or an emotional burden? Should you stretch your budget for a reliable vehicle, even if the math says “wait”? Together, Michael and Brady unpack the emotional crossroads where safety, lifestyle, and financial planning collide. You'll hear real client scenarios, practical tools to evaluate your options, and why a sound income plan gives you the freedom to say “yes” to what truly matters—even when the numbers don’t line up perfectly. Whether you’re retired, approaching retirement, or simply value peace of mind over perfect math, this episode will reshape the way you think about big-ticket decisions.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Purpose-driven decisions and emotional bias

(07:00) - Collecting key data before making a purchase

(10:00) - Defining what you want in your next car

(12:00) - Financing options and the role of interest rates

(14:00) - The importance of flexibility in retirement income plans

(17:00) - Balancing emotional comfort with financial impact

(20:00) - How a solid income plan supports confident decisions

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, The Dave Ramsey Show, BiggerPockets Podcast, The Motley Fool Money Show, We Study Billionaires, ChooseFI, Afford Anything, buying a car in retirement, new car on fixed income, should I buy a new car, retirement car buying guide, car purchase decision making, financial planning for retirees

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice.  Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own.  Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. All investments and investment strategies contain risk and may lose value. 

Michael Acosta is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 6115 PARK SOUTH DRIVE, SUITE 200, CHARLOTTE NC, 28210, 704-5528507. Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. Genesis Wealth Planning is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. CA Insurance License # 0M50974. 7237198.1. Expiration 7-27.

Michael and Brady dig deep into a paradox affecting a generation: Millennials and Gen Z are planning their finances more than ever, yet still feel financially stuck. If you’ve ever felt like you’re checking all the boxes—budgeting, saving, investing—but still can’t shake the feeling of falling behind, this episode is for you. It’s not just about numbers—it’s about perspective, purpose, and progress. This isn’t your parents’ financial playbook, and that’s exactly why you need a new approach.

Key Takeaways:

• Why do younger Americans feel financially behind despite taking more proactive steps with their money?

• How have rising costs, shifting responsibilities, and social comparisons reshaped what financial success looks like today?

• What mindset and planning strategies can help Millennials and Gen Z find clarity, reduce stress, and build lasting financial momentum?

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Gen Z and Millennials: DIY financial planning trends

(05:00) - Major stressors: housing, student loans, and rising costs

(10:00) - Behavioral finance and anxiety-driven decision-making

(13:00) - Wage growth vs. cost of living: the uphill financial battle

(16:00) - Retirement savings shift: from pensions to 401(k)s

(19:00) - Rethinking the “standard” financial script

(22:00) - How to set goals that actually fit your life

(24:00) - The role of liquidity and flexibility in your financial plan

(27:00) - Why working with a coach or advisor makes a difference

(33:00) - Climbing the financial mountain: accumulation vs. decumulation

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, Stock Market Crashes, Millennial Financial Planning, Gen Z Money Struggles, Overcoming Financial Stress, Building Financial Confidence, Modern Financial Goals Strategy

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice.  Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own.  Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. All investments and investment strategies contain risk and may lose value. 

Michael Acosta is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 6115 PARK SOUTH DRIVE, SUITE 200, CHARLOTTE NC, 28210, 704-5528507. Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. Genesis Wealth Planning is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. CA Insurance License # 0M50974. 7237198.9. Expiration 6-27.

Are your Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) helping you build wealth—or holding you back? Michael and Brady break down one of the most misunderstood components of a high-income professional’s compensation package: RSUs. From tax implications and diversification strategies to avoiding lifestyle creep and planning with purpose, this episode gives you the tools to turn stock awards into long-term financial security. Whether you're new to RSUs or looking to sharpen your strategy, you’ll walk away with actionable insights to level up your wealth-building game. This episode is a must-listen for anyone receiving equity compensation and wanting to build extraordinary wealth with clarity and confidence.

Key Takeaways:

• How can professionals strategically manage RSUs to align with their short- and long-term financial goals?

• What are the key tax implications of RSUs, and how can you plan ahead to avoid surprises?

• Why is it important to diversify RSU holdings, and what are the risks of overconcentration in company stock?

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - What are RSUs

(02:00) - Excitement and risks of RSUs

(04:00) - Vesting and phantom value explained

(07:00) - Risks of changing employers

(08:00) - Tax implications when RSUs vest

(09:00) - Why companies prefer RSUs over bonuses

(16:00) - Planning around estimated taxes and W-4

(17:00) - Options after receiving vested shares

(23:00) - Emotional bias and loyalty to company stock

(24:00) - Goals-based decisions and opportunity cost

(25:00) - Periodic sales and tax considerations

(26:00) - Aligning RSUs with short- and long-term goals

(28:00) - Plan rules and trading restrictions

(31:00) - Risk of holding too much company stock  

Key Topics Discussed:

Financial Fortitude, Genesis Wealth Planning, Brady Hemmerle, Michael Acosta, Financial Wellness, Wealth Building, Financial Psychology, Financial Advisor, Finance Coach, Student Loan Debt, Finance Guidance for High Earners, Business Owner Finances, Hiring a Financial Advisor, Student Loan Forgiveness, Tax Strategies, Retirement Planning, Investing Strategies, Stock Market Crashes, Millennial Financial Planning, Gen Z Money Struggles, Overcoming Financial Stress, Building Financial Confidence, Modern Financial Goals Strategy, Restricted Stock Units, RSU tax strategies, tech compensation planning, RSU investment tips, maximizing RSU benefits

Mentions:

Website: https://www.genesiswealthplanning.com/

Michael’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelracosta/

Brady’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-hemmerle-cfp%C2%AE-75043013a/

Financial Health Checkup: https://www.livingbalancesheet.com/lbsVision/lite/michaelracosta

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as tax, legal, or investment advice. Although the information has been gathered from sources believed to be reliable, please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, the information should be relied upon only when coordinated with individual professional advice.  Guest speakers and their firms are not affiliated with or endorsed by PAS, Guardian, or Genesis Wealth Planning and opinions stated are their own.  Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents, and employees do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult your tax, legal, or accounting professional regarding your individual situation. All investments and investment strategies contain risk and may lose value. 

Michael Acosta is a Registered Representative and Financial Advisor of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 6115 PARK SOUTH DRIVE, SUITE 200, CHARLOTTE NC, 28210, 704-5528507. Securities products and advisory services offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Guardian. Genesis Wealth Planning is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. CA Insurance License # 0M50974. 7237198.7. Expiration 5/27.