Building a dividend portfolio in 2026 starts with defining your goals—whether you want maximum income, strong growth, or a blend of both. The hosts explain that dividend investing includes three “pillars”: foundational growers like dividend aristocrats, high-yield income producers such as energy companies, and opportunity stocks like maturing tech firms or companies recovering from past dividend cuts. A smart portfolio typically balances these categories, with about half in foundational growers, 20–30% in income producers, and 10–15% in higher-risk opportunities. They warn against chasing high yields without checking financial health, especially earnings trends and payout ratios. Ultimately, success comes from patience, diversification, and letting reinvested dividends compound over time.www.planningmadesimple.com