Great Points

On today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks about a fairly common challenge for very future oriented people...how can they actually spend their money and not feel guilty about it?  By bucketing out "fun money", you or your thrifty loved one can enjoy some responsible spending without putting long-term goals at risk.

On this episode of Great Points, Matt and Brandon discuss some books they've recently read that you can take to the beach or wherever you do your reading.  They discuss a couple lighter options, and also a few for those who want to go deeper on their financial learning.  

"Psychology of Money" by Morgan Housel
"Your Money and Your Brain" by Jason Zweig
"Your Money or Your Life" by Vicky Robin and Joe Dominguez
"Financial Intelligence" by Doug Lennick
"Think and Grow Rich" by Napoleon Hill

On today's episode of Great Points, Matt answers three questions from his friend and former colleague Jason Roberts of Oracle.  Jason is wondering how he can possibly manage to pay for 4 kids to go to college, what he should do with his Employee Stock Purchase Plan, and whether a Roth conversion would be right for him?

On today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks about some of the traditional assumptions we make about retirement, and what are some other options available.  What if retirement isn't just about working until 65 and then stopping cold turkey?

On today's episode, Matt talks with colleague Brandon Parker about the value of networking, especially early in your career.  Whether you work in sales, the trades, or even work at a big Fortune 500 company, expanding your network has many benefits beyond just finding your next job.  Matt and Brandon discuss some strategies for building relationships and how building a network can open doors you may not have expected.

On today's episode, Matt speaks with Sharon Billings, Life Coach and Founder of Blue Compass Life.  They talk about some behavioral challenges people face in life and personal finance.  What are some of the myths or mental blocks that hold people back?  Are there different patterns for different genders or generations? 

On today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks in depth about Inflation Bonds (i bonds) and how they may fit into your investment portfolio.  Much like CDs, these instruments are paying higher rates than they have in years, but understanding how they work and the risks associated can help you make the best choice for your circumstances.

On today's episode of Great Points, Matt analyzes the current state of the housing market and how to decide the right path for you.  The decision to buy a house is complex, and there are many things to think about.  Here are some factors to consider and calculations that can help you make an informed decision you won't regret later.

On today's episode, Matt talks with Heather Tharpe, a licensed wellness coach and hypnotherapist based in Wenham, MA.  Heather asks Matt about how to overcome fear of investment loss, how to prepare for a working retirement, and how to live her life today without worrying about tomorrow, with a few pop culture references mixed in.  They also cover house downsizing considerations and how to approach planning for her children as they become adults.  

On today's episode of Great Points, Matt talks with Great Point Wealth Advisors founder and Chief Investment Officer, Pete Disch, about recent news regarding the US economy.  They touch on inflation, the market's reaction to recent economic data, and reading recommendations to become a better investor.