Most people have found themselves dealing with too much debt as some time in their lives.  Others live in perpetual debt.  It isn't a good feeling when those debt payments seem endless.  This three-part series will give you some ideas on how to get out of debt, and stay out of debt. Key takeaways:

• Start an emergency fund so that emergencies don't catch you by surprise
• List out your debts and pay off the smallest one first while paying the minimums on other debt
• Once you pay off the smallest debt, take that payment and apply it to the next debt
• Determine how much you can pay towards debt per month and stick with it

Being a pet owner has many joys and trials.  Is owning a pet right for you?  On today's podcast we talk about some of the joys and benefits of having pets.  We also discuss the responsibilities and expenses. Key takeaways:

• Pets can help you live longer
• Pets can be great companions
• Know the costs before you get a pet: time and money
• Covid lockdowns created a rush to get pets

There has been a trend among younger workers called "Quietly Quitting" where they do the least amount of work required for their job.  But a new trend is emerging called "Quietly Returning" where older workers that were retired are "unretiring".  This gives both employers and older workers big advantages.  Older workers want part time, flexibility, routine, and socializing.  Employers can fill open positions with people that have years of varied experience. Key takeaways:

• More than 60% of those who unretire say they are looking for something to do 
• More than 50% are happy with their decision
• While it can be intimidating, these workers are trailblazers
• Retirement no longer an exit, but a mile market

I'm sure you have heard a lot about the provision in the Inflation Increase Act to give $80 million dollars to the IRS.  There has been much concern about increases in IRS audits and that the IRS has been stockpiling bullets.  While lawmakers are trying to calm the concerns of Americans, there are several reasons why the IRS is understaffed and service is suffering.  The real question is what will happen when the IRS beefs up it's staffing.   Key takeaways:

• Since the 2013 IRS scandal, there have been several IRS budget cuts
• The Inflation Increase Act will require more taxes to be collected to pay for all the new spending
• Significant numbers of IRS agents are over 55 and will be retiring
• New hires are not expected to be trained until 2026

It can be hard to see something that is missing.  We often see people missing these 6 things from their retirement plans.  The good news, is once you see it you can correct it.

• Not having a complete retirement plan
• Not considering Long Term Care
• Not having an estate plan

It can be hard to see something that is missing.  We often see people missing these 6 things from their retirement plans.  The good news, is once you see it you can correct it. Key takeaways:

• Not having enough emergency savings & low earnings on these funds
• Having too much company stock
• Assets not allocated well

Today we explain the difference between inflation and recession and how these each potentially impact you financially.  Does your financial plan include ways to overcome inflation and recession? Key takeaways:

• We are in the highest inflationary period in over 40 years
• By historical definition, we are in a recession
• We haven't seen both together since the 1970's
• What are good investments right now

With the current inflation, we are looking for ways to make more money, or save money.  On today's podcast we explore ways to earn more, save more, and spend less.  Remember the old adage "a penny saved is a penny earned".   Key takeaways:

• High Yield Savings Accounts
• Cash back credit cards
• Turn a hobby into cash
• Online coupons & cash back programs

If you have a mutual fund that isn't performing well, how do you know if you should hold 'em or fold 'em? Look at your overall asset allocation strategy first and see if the fund is still in line with your goals or not.  Then look at how much the fund is costing you. Key takeaways:

• How soon do you need the money?
• Look at your risk tolerance instead of chasing past performance
• Make sure you are rebalancing your asset allocations
• Do you know how much the fund is costing you in load fees and administrative fees?

North American workers can be workaholics, with 26% saying they have never taken two weeks' vacation at one time.  But it is taking a toll on many people's health and lives.  So why could vacations save your life?  Listen in to this week's podcast to find out. Key takeaways:

• Increase mindfulness by reducing familiarity
• Improve heart health and reduce blood pressure, blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol
• Boost brainpower and creativity when your mind is relaxed
• Improve sleep as you break your at home sleeping habits