This episode of Gimme Some Truth is an introduction into a series exploring how people can reframe conversations about money to focus on goals, purpose, and empowerment. Financial advisors Polly Price and Alicia Vande Ven, CFP® address societal taboos, financial education gaps, and the importance of shifting discussions from numbers to achieving life goals like retirement, education, and travel. Gain insights on asking better financial questions and building confidence in managing money.

In this episode, Nate and Clint explore the challenges and benefits of embracing change, discussing why people often resist it and how to overcome it. Covering essential topics like adapting to retirement, managing life transitions, and building resilience, they share practical strategies for turning change into an opportunity for growth. Discover how to handle change in both personal and professional life, improve your mindset, and tackle daily challenges with confidence. Ideal for those preparing for retirement, facing life changes, or seeking ways to improve adaptability, this episode provides actionable insights for managing life’s big shifts.

In this episode of Gimme Some Truth, we explore essential retirement planning strategies specifically designed for employees of the University of Wisconsin (UW) System and the State of Wisconsin. Discover how to maximize your 403(b) and 457(b) plans, understand the benefits of the state pension system, and make the most of your investment options with providers like TIAA and Fidelity.

* Investment Choices with TIAA and Fidelity: Explore the advantages of these standardized plans, including low-cost options and diversified portfolios.

* Catch-Up Provisions and Early Access: Understand how catch-up contributions and penalty-free withdrawals in 457(b) plans can benefit high-income earners and those nearing retirement.

In this video, we break down strategies to make Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) less overwhelming and more tax-efficient. If you're approaching retirement or already retired, understanding RMD rules, age requirements, and the impact on your tax bracket is essential. We cover everything from the basics of RMDs to advanced strategies for minimizing tax implications and preserving wealth.

As 2024 comes to a close, it’s time to get your financial ducks in a row for the new year. Reviewing essential areas now can help you maximize tax efficiency, protect assets, and set up for a successful 2025. Here’s your year-end checklist to keep everything on track:

Get your financial ducks in a row before 2025, and start the new year feeling secure and prepared! #YearEndChecklist #FinancialPlanning #GetYourDucksInARow #TaxSavings

In this episode, Nate and Clint spend some time diving into some crowdsourced questions, as we amend "Ask Me Anything (AMA)" to "Ask Us Anything (AUA)". We spend some time discussing things we have learned from our spouses, how Walkner Condon was named, and why Nate strong dislikes jeans in the office. We welcome questions for future episodes. send them along!

When the Fed cuts rates, what does it say about the economy? Does it mean we are on the cusp of a recession, or might it be a bullish signal? Nate, Clint, and Syl sit down to speak about the most recent Fed rate cut in September 2024 and also what it means in the context of prior rate cuts.

Discover more about the world of index investing in our video podcast. We dive into the history of index funds, starting with the creation of the S&P 500 and the revolutionary move by Vanguard in 1976. Learn the differences between major indexes like the Dow Jones and Russell 2000, and explore the rise of Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), which offer tax efficiency, intraday trading, and accessibility for smaller investors.

We also break down key index construction methods, such as market-cap-weighted vs. equal-weighted indexes, and discuss how different approaches impact portfolio performance. Additionally, gain insights into factor indexing strategies and how modern investing has evolved beyond passive approaches, utilizing factors like size, momentum, and quality to enhance returns.

This video is for anyone wanting to understand:

Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting out, this comprehensive overview will help you navigate the ever-expanding world of index investing. Don’t miss out—subscribe for more insights on personal finance and investment strategies! #IndexInvesting #ETF #S&P500 #MutualFunds #FactorInvesting #Vanguard #Russell2000 #InvestingBasics #FinancialEducation

Polly, Clint, and Nate discuss some important factors around HSA accounts - did you know you can invest the proceeds into stocks, bonds, and funds? We discuss how HSAs have some similar properties to Roth IRAs and then an added benefit of being tax deductible on top of tax free if used for medical expenses. We also caution people how to appropriately look at HSAs in regards to balancing investments with timeframe and expected distributions.

In this episode we get to know Andrew Klein, our newest financial advisor that recently joined us at Walkner Condon. Andrew is a career changer - very briefly considered a career in education, and worked at ESPN in Madison. After pivoting to financial services, he began his career at MassMutual and focused on helping his clients with retirement income and tax planning. In his spare time he loves Wisconsin sports, playing golf, and is also a fitness instructor and fitness enthusiast.