How does Epic's employee stock program work—and what do you need to know about taxes, loans, 83(b) elections, and long-term planning?

In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, financial professionals Clint Walkner, Alicia Vande Ven, CFP® (former Epic HR), and Mitch DeWitt, CFP®, break down the complexities of Epic employee stock, including vesting, tax implications, exit planning, and risk management. Whether you're an Epic employee, former staffer, or simply navigating equity compensation, this episode offers structured insight into managing your equity in 2025 and beyond.

Check out our new Epic Stock Financial Planning Guide

www.walknercondon.com/epic

🔎 Topics include:

Epic stock structure and evolution

Understanding 83(b) elections

Managing stock loans and risk

Using direct indexing and donor-advised funds

Planning for vesting, exit, and retirement

This content is for informational purposes only and not intended as tax or investment advice.

⏱️ Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro: What makes Epic stock unique

01:00 – Alicia’s background at Epic and initial exposure to equity

02:15 – How Epic’s stock plan has changed over time

04:30 – Why it's important to understand what you own

06:00 – Vesting, taxation, and the W-2 surprise

07:45 – 83(b) election explained: benefits and risks

10:30 – Exit planning: start early to expand your options

12:45 – When Epic stock becomes "real money"

14:10 – Investment strategy: what to consider before leaving

15:40 – Direct indexing for tax efficiency

17:00 – Donor-Advised Funds: grouping charitable giving

19:00 – Planning around fluctuating income and loan terms

21:15 – Why family and spouse income must be considered

23:00 – The role of personal goals in equity planning

24:30 – How to prepare for a financial planning meeting

Read our blog post on Donor-Advised Funds: https://walknercondon.com/blog/what-is-a-donor-advised-fund/

Read our blog post on Direct Indexing: https://walknercondon.com/blog/introduction-to-direct-indexing/

#EpicStock #EquityCompensation #83BElection #TaxPlanning2025 #DirectIndexing #DonorAdvisedFunds #GimmeSomeTruthPodcast #ExitPlanning #EmployeeStockPlans #EpicSystems

For more on this topic and others check out the blog on our website: https://walknercondon.com/blog/

Visit our website for more financial planning resources and educational information: https://www.walknercondon.com

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In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, Clint, Nate, and Syl break down the Q3 market recap and share their Q4 stock market outlook. They discuss the continued strength of U.S. and international equities, the resilience of the economy despite tariffs and global challenges, and how potential Federal Reserve rate cuts may shape the months ahead.

They also dive into currency pressures, inflation trends, consumer spending, and real estate dynamics—plus the growing influence of AI and reshoring initiatives on the broader economy. Packed with insights for both experienced investors and new market participants, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the final quarter of the year.

Key Topics Covered

Q3 Market Recap – Momentum in U.S. and international stocks

Global Market Trends – International equities and broader outlook

Economic Resilience – How the economy withstands tariffs and headwinds

Federal Reserve & Rates – Possible interest rate cuts and their impact

Inflation & Currency Shifts – Managing volatility in a changing market

Consumer Spending & Housing – Real estate trends shaping demand

Q4 Outlook – Key themes and expectations for the coming quarter

Episode Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction and Overview

00:37 – Q3 Market Recap

01:52 – International Stocks and Broader Market Trends

03:11 – Economic Resilience and Tariffs

05:19 – Federal Reserve Policies and Interest Rates

07:58 – Currency and Inflation Concerns

12:17 – Consumer Spending and Real Estate

14:18 – Q4 Outlook and Themes

19:22 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

READ THE BLOG POST FOR MORE INFO:

https://walknercondon.com

https://walknercondon.com/blog/2025-q3-investment-summary/

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🌐 Learn More About Walkner Condon Financial Advisors:

Visit: https://walknercondon.com

🌍 Are You a U.S. Expat?

We specialize in financial planning for Americans abroad:

Explore our dedicated expat site: https://usexpatinvesting.com

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In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, we take a closer look at the future of Social Security and what it means for retirement planning. Mitch shares insights into the projected depletion of the Social Security Trust Fund by 2033, highlighting that while the headlines can be alarming, Social Security payments have never been missed.

We explore the origins of Social Security, the impact of demographic shifts, and the political and funding challenges shaping its outlook. The conversation also reviews potential legislative reforms — including retirement age adjustments, tax changes, and benefit modifications.

Finally, we emphasize the importance of stress-testing financial plans so individuals can prepare for possible changes and uncertainties in the system.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction and Topic Overview

00:50 – Current State of Social Security

02:07 – Historical Context and Trust Fund Details

05:26 – Future Projections and Potential Solutions

07:07 – Political Challenges and Demographic Impact

12:54 – Possible Changes and Recommendations

14:50 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

READ THE BLOG POST FOR MORE INFO:

https://walknercondon.com/blog/is-social-security-going-away/

🔔 Subscribe for More Insights on Financial Planning, Investing, and Retirement:

👉 Subscribe to our channel and never miss an episode of Gimme Some Truth

🌐 Learn More About Walkner Condon Financial Advisors:

Visit: https://walknercondon.com

🌍 Are You a U.S. Expat?

We specialize in financial planning for Americans abroad:

Explore our dedicated expat site: https://usexpatinvesting.com

📣 Connect with Us on Social Media:

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In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, hosts Clint Walkner and Syl Michelin take a closer look at the S&P 500 index, separating fact from fiction. Many investors assume the S&P 500 is broadly diversified and a true reflection of the U.S. economy—but the reality is more complex.

We break down the history and performance of the S&P 500, uncover the truth about its concentration in mega-cap tech stocks and select sectors, and explain why relying on it as a sole investment strategy carries significant risks. You’ll also learn how global factors influence the index and why diversification may not be what it seems.

If you want to make smarter, more informed investment decisions, this episode will help you rethink your approach to the S&P 500 and portfolio diversification.

Episode Breakdown:

00:00 – Introduction and Fun Fact about the S&P 500

01:07 – Debunking the Diversification Myth

02:52 – Sector Concentration in the S&P 500

06:14 – Global Influence on the Index

09:19 – Risks of Using the S&P 500 as a Sole Investment Strategy

14:49 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

🔔 Subscribe for More Insights on Financial Planning, Investing, and Retirement:

👉 Subscribe to our channel and never miss an episode of Gimme Some Truth @walknercondon

🌐 Learn More About Walkner Condon Financial Advisors:

Visit: https://walknercondon.com

🌍 Are You a U.S. Expat?

We specialize in financial planning for Americans abroad:

Explore our dedicated expat site: https://usexpatinvesting.com

📣 Connect with Us on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walknercondon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/walknercondon

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In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, we explore the GENIUS Act, a groundbreaking bipartisan law that brings much-needed regulatory clarity to stablecoins and the broader crypto market.

💵 What are stablecoins?

Why do they matter to investors and consumers? Unlike volatile assets like Bitcoin or Ethereum, stablecoins are pegged to the U.S. dollar and backed by high-quality reserves—making them a powerful tool for payments, cross-border transfers, and financial stability.

🎙️ Our hosts dive into:

What the GENIUS Act means for crypto regulation in the U.S.

The differences between stablecoins, Bitcoin, and gold

Real-world uses of stablecoins for remittances, retailers, and digital payments

Key investment considerations for crypto assets

How this legislation could transform the future of money

📌 Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro

00:33 – What is the GENIUS Act?

03:49 – Stablecoins explained

06:47 – Real-world use cases

09:22 – Comparing stablecoins to Bitcoin & gold

13:10 – Crypto as an investment

18:07 – Final thoughts

👍 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you're interested in crypto, regulation, or smart investing strategies!

#GeniusAct #Stablecoins #CryptoRegulation #CryptocurrencyNews #DigitalAssets #Bitcoin #Ethereum #USDStablecoins #CryptoInvesting #GimmeSomeTruth #WalknerCondon #FinancialPodcast

In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, financial advisors Nate Condon and Clint Walkner explore whether it makes sense to claim Social Security early—as early as age 62 or 63—rather than waiting until 70.

📊 They challenge the traditional advice to delay benefits and explain how early Social Security claiming can support meaningful lifestyle choices like travel, hobbies, and enjoying retirement while you're still young and active.

Key topics covered:

Pros and cons of claiming Social Security at 62, 63, or full retirement age

Health, longevity, and spending factors to consider

How early retirement income strategies can align with your life goals

The role of personalized financial planning in Social Security decisions

If you're nearing retirement and wondering when to start Social Security, this episode offers a balanced, personalized perspective.

📺 Watch now to learn how to align your Social Security strategy with your unique goals.

⏱️ Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Social Security and Conventional Wisdom

01:06 – The Case for Delaying Social Security

02:46 – Challenging Conventional Wisdom: Early Social Security Benefits

07:33 – Financial Flexibility and Personal Goals

07:55 – Considering Future Uncertainties

08:43 – Advisors' Role in Personalized Financial Planning

13:44 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

#SocialSecurity #RetirementPlanning #FinancialPlanning #ClaimSocialSecurityEarly #GimmeSomeTruth #PersonalFinance #RetirementStrategy #walknercondon

🔔 Subscribe for More Insights on Financial Planning, Investing, and Retirement:

👉 Subscribe to our channel and never miss an episode of Gimme Some Truth @walknercondon

🌐 Learn More About Walkner Condon Financial Advisors:

Visit: https://walknercondon.com

🌍 Are You a U.S. Expat?

We specialize in financial planning for Americans abroad:

Explore our dedicated expat site: https://usexpatinvesting.com

📣 Connect with Us on Social Media:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walknercondon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/walknercondon

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/walknercondon/

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In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, our investment committee hosts a spirited financial debate on some of today’s most pressing topics:

📈 U.S. stock market valuations

💰 Tariffs as hidden taxes

🧠 The future of artificial intelligence (AI) in investing

Watch Sunny Syl vs. Skeptical Stan as they share bullish and bearish views on the economy, recession risks, and fiscal policy. Hosted by Clint Walkner, this point-counterpoint format brings insight on navigating market volatility and uncovering opportunities in uncertain times.

🔍 Key topics include:

Are U.S. stocks overvalued?

How tariffs are impacting the economy

Treasury bonds and dollar strength

AI's potential to reshape markets and investing strategies

🕒 Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

00:30 Investment Committee Dynamics

01:49 Stock Market Valuations

04:23 Economic Impact of Tariffs

12:58 Treasury Bonds & Dollar Outlook

22:33 AI and Future Market Predictions

31:41 Final Thoughts

💬 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more on economic trends, investment strategy, and financial market insights.

⁠ @walknercondon ⁠ ⁠ @usexpatinvesting ⁠ #StockMarket #Tariffs #ArtificialIntelligence #InvestingDebate #USEconomy #MarketOutlook #FinancialPlanning #RecessionRisk #TreasuryYields #aiinvesting

In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, Clint and Nate welcome Andy King, the newest advisor joining Walkner Condon Financial Advisors. Andy brings decades of experience, a deep commitment to his clients, and a thoughtful approach to succession planning. Along with his assistant Regan Miller, Andy shares why he chose to merge with Walkner Condon, how he built King Financial Group, and what lies ahead for their clients.

Whether you're a client, a fellow advisor, or just curious about how financial advisors plan their own retirement transitions—this episode offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at the heart of wealth management.

📍 Timestamps:

00:08 – Welcome + Introducing Andy King

00:48 – Andy's Background: From Madison to Notre Dame

01:43 – Founding King Financial Group in 2010

02:41 – Why Andy Chose Walkner Condon for Succession

03:59 – The Challenges of Finding the Right Fit

05:06 – The Value of Staying Local vs. National Aggregators

06:00 – Building Client Trust Through Thoughtful Transitions

06:30 – Starting in a Living Room: The Early Days of King Financial

07:06 – Andy's Second Home in San Antonio: The Story Behind It

09:19 – Managing a Financial Firm from Two States

10:24 – Why San Antonio Was the Right Move

10:46 – Final Thoughts + Welcoming Andy to the Team

11:00 – Disclosures

👉 Learn more at: https://walknercondon.com

🎙 Subscribe for more insights  @walknercondon  #FinancialAdvisor #SuccessionPlanning #MadisonWI #WealthManagement #GimmeSomeTruth #WalknerCondon #SanAntonioLiving #RetirementPlanning #AndyKing #investmentadvice

For more on this topic and others check out the blog on our website: https://walknercondon.com/blog/

Visit our website for more financial planning resources and educational information: https://www.walknercondon.com ————————————————

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In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, we dive deep into alternative investments—exploring everything from private equity and private debt to real estate, commodities, crypto, and hedge funds. Nate Condon and Clint Walkner from Walkner Condon Financial Advisors explain how access to these investment options has evolved and what individual investors should know before diving in.

Whether you're a high-net-worth investor or someone exploring portfolio diversification beyond stocks and bonds, this episode delivers clear explanations and real-world examples to help you understand risks, rewards, and opportunities in today’s alternatives landscape.

🔔 Subscribe for more investment insights:  @walknercondon 

⏱️ Timestamps:

0:00 – Welcome & Episode Introduction

0:25 – What Are Alternative Investments?

1:20 – Accredited vs. Qualified Investors

2:40 – Interval Funds & Easier Access

4:15 – Why Alternatives Are Gaining Popularity

5:00 – Risks & Fees Associated with Alternatives

6:10 – Introduction to Private Equity

8:00 – Venture Capital vs. Late-Stage Equity

10:00 – Private Equity Risk vs. Reward

11:00 – Understanding Private Debt

13:00 – Examples of Private Lending (Cannabis Industry)

15:10 – Fixed Income vs. Floating Rate Debt

17:00 – Risks of Private Debt & Redemption Limits

18:15 – Real Estate: Equity vs. Debt Structures

20:30 – Student Housing & Development Projects

23:00 – Exit Strategies & Liquidity Events

24:00 – Commodities as Traditional Alternatives

25:00 – Crypto: Bitcoin, Ethereum, ETFs, and Risks

26:00 – Hedge Funds: Market Neutral & Diversification

26:45 – Final Thoughts on Diversifying with Alternatives

Key Topics Covered:

How alternative investments differ from traditional assets

Private equity and venture capital strategies

Private lending, risk profiles, and yields

Real estate investing: development, remodeling, and student housing

Cryptocurrency exposure through ETFs and wallets

Hedge fund strategies and market neutrality

Why portfolio diversification matters now more than ever

For more on this topic and others check out the blog on our website: https://walknercondon.com/blog/

Visit our website for more financial planning resources and educational information: https://www.walknercondon.com

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#AlternativeInvestments #PrivateEquity #CryptoInvesting #RealEstateInvesting #FinancialPlanning #WalknerCondon #InvestingPodcast #GimmeSomeTruth #WealthManagement #DiversifyYourPortfolio

Thinking about buying your first home or upgrading to a new one? 🏡 In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, Polly Price and Evan Waltz share their first-hand experiences and advice on navigating the home buying process — from budgeting and finding the right mortgage to dealing with hidden costs and emotional ups and downs. 🎯 Learn how to be financially smart and confident when making the biggest purchase of your life!

⏰ Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction: Real experiences in home buying

01:00 – Moving from starter home to second home

03:00 – First steps: Planning after marriage

06:00 – Choosing realtors and getting pre-approved

08:00 – Creating a realistic home buying budget

10:00 – Hidden costs of homeownership

12:00 – Hiring movers and handling surprise expenses

14:00 – 30-Year Fixed vs Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM)

16:00 – The importance of a good realtor in a hot market

18:00 – Managing emotions in a competitive buying market

20:00 – Bidding strategies and final thoughts

🔍 Topics Covered:

How to budget for your first home

Understanding hidden costs beyond the mortgage

Choosing between fixed-rate and ARM mortgages

Why a realtor is crucial in competitive markets

Tips to stay financially disciplined and avoid emotional decisions

👍 Don't forget to Like, Comment, and Subscribe for more expert real estate, finance, and life planning advice!

#HomeBuyingTips #FirstTimeHomeBuyer #RealEstateAdvice #MortgageTips

SUBSCRIBE: @walknercondon

For more on this topic and others check out the blog on our website: https://walknercondon.com/blog/

Visit our website for more financial planning resources and educational information: https://www.walknercondon.com

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