When most people think about building wealth, they picture stocks, bonds, and maybe a savings account. But there's a whole world of alternative investments, from real estate and private equity to collectibles and digital assets, that could play a role in a well-rounded portfolio. In today's episode of Purposeful Planning, we're breaking down what alternative investments are, why they might be worth considering, and what you need to think through before diving in. 

Sources:   

1. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/investment/alternative-investments-more-than-stocks-and-bonds 
2. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/  
3. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/investment-management  

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.  

This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate and is intended merely for educational purposes, not as advice.  

Aspen Wealth Management is a registered investment advisor with the SEC. 

This recorded posting utilizes AI generated voiceovers. While the Firm strictly prohibits the use of AI for advisory activities constituting investment advice, financial plans, portfolio analysis and management, and reporting, the use of AI for other purposes, such as voiceovers, is permitted and utilized for the firm’s recordings. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Health insurance costs are rising for many Americans following the expiration of enhanced ACA subsidies at the end of 2025. In this episode of Purposeful Planning, we explore how the Premium Tax Credit works, who qualifies, and the options available to those who no longer receive enhanced subsidies. Whether you're self-employed, in early retirement, or simply looking for affordable coverage, understanding these changes is crucial for managing your healthcare costs in 2026. 

Sources:   

1. https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/premium-tax-credit-ptc-overview#:~:text=The%20premium%20tax%20credit%20%E2%80%93%20also%20known,with%20Form%208962%2C%20Premium%20Tax%20Credit%20(PTC). 
2. https://openenrollment.healthcare/insurance-marketplace-healthcare-quotes/  
3. https://www.cms.gov/marketplace/outreach-and-education/health-savings-account.pdf  
4. https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/high-deductible-health-plan/  
5. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/  
6. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/financial-planning  
7. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/blog/webinars/from-countdown-to-confidence-your-retirement-transition-checklist 
8. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/tax/understanding-the-premium-tax-credit-are-you-eligible  

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.  

This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate and is intended merely for educational purposes, not as advice.  

Aspen Wealth Management is a registered investment advisor with the SEC. 

This recorded posting utilizes AI generated voiceovers. While the Firm strictly prohibits the use of AI for advisory activities constituting investment advice, financial plans, portfolio analysis and management, and reporting, the use of AI for other purposes, such as voiceovers, is permitted and utilized for the firm’s recordings.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tax law changes have made it harder for many people to benefit from charitable deductions, but that hasn't stopped Americans from supporting the causes they care about. In this episode of Purposeful Planning, we explore how donor-advised funds offer a flexible, tax-efficient way to maximize your philanthropic impact. From batching contributions to understanding the new restrictions under OBBBA, discover strategies that help you give more effectively while potentially reducing your tax bill. 

Sources:   

1. https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-releases-tax-inflation-adjustments-for-tax-year-2026-including-amendments-from-the-one-big-beautiful-bill  
2. https://taxnews.ey.com/news/2025-2004-irs-and-treasury-2025-2026-priority-guidance-plan-includes-various-projects-applicable-to-tax-exempt-organizations#:~:text=Guidance%20under%20IRC%20Section%204966%20addressing%20taxable,other%20guidance%20items%20on%20DAFs%20being%20removed 
3. https://taxfoundation.org/blog/charitable-deduction-big-beautiful-bill/  
4. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/investment-management 
5. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/about-us/#ourteam  
6. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/contact-us-fee-only-advisors-fort-worth  
7. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/financial-planning/donor-advised-funds-charitable-giving  

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.  

This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate and is intended merely for educational purposes, not as advice.  

Aspen Wealth Management is a registered investment advisor with the SEC. 

This recorded posting utilizes AI generated voiceovers. While the Firm strictly prohibits the use of AI for advisory activities constituting investment advice, financial plans, portfolio analysis and management, and reporting, the use of AI for other purposes, such as voiceovers, is permitted and utilized for the firm’s recordings. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Early retirement is a dream for many Americans, but making it work requires more than just saving enough money; it requires smart tax strategies. In this episode of Purposeful Planning, we explore how Roth conversions can help early retirees reduce their lifetime tax burden and create more tax-free income in retirement. From understanding the five-year rule to timing your conversions strategically, discover whether this approach makes sense for your situation. 

Sources:   

1. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/retirement-planning 
2. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/tax-planning 
3. https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-participant-employee/retirement-topics-required-minimum-distributions-rmds  
4. https://www.financialplanningassociation.org/learning/publications/journal/MAY23-arithmetic-roth-conversions-OPEN  
5. https://smartasset.com/taxes/conversion-tax-planning-strategy  
6. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/about-us  
7. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/contact-us-fee-only-advisors-fort-worth  
8. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/estate/gifting-strategies-without-hurting-retirement  
9. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/retirement/early-retirement-and-tax-smart-roth-conversions  

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.  

This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate and is intended merely for educational purposes, not as advice.  

Aspen Wealth Management is a registered investment advisor with the SEC. 

This recorded posting utilizes AI generated voiceovers. While the Firm strictly prohibits the use of AI for advisory activities constituting investment advice, financial plans, portfolio analysis and management, and reporting, the use of AI for other purposes, such as voiceovers, is permitted and utilized for the firm’s recordings. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most parents would do anything to help their children succeed, but providing financial support shouldn't come at the expense of your own retirement security. In this episode of Purposeful Planning, we explore smart gifting strategies that allow you to support the next generation while protecting your financial future. From strategic giving approaches to understanding gift tax implications, discover how to help your kids build better lives without compromising your own. 

Sources:   

1. https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/gifting-while-you-are-alive-tax-benefits-and-practical-tips  
2. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/estate/estate-planning-mistakes-to-avoid 
3. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/estate/gifting-strategies-without-hurting-retirement  

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.  

This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate and is intended merely for educational purposes, not as advice.  

Aspen Wealth Management is a registered investment advisor with the SEC. 

This recorded posting utilizes AI generated voiceovers. While the Firm strictly prohibits the use of AI for advisory activities constituting investment advice, financial plans, portfolio analysis and management, and reporting, the use of AI for other purposes, such as voiceovers, is permitted and utilized for the firm’s recordings. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When most people think about investing, stocks and bonds come to mind. But what about that vintage car collection, your rare coins, or even that comic book from the 1960s? In today's episode of Purposeful Planning, we're exploring the world of alternative investments, from collectibles to real estate to digital assets. We'll discuss what makes these investments unique, the opportunities they present, and how they might fit into your overall financial picture. Whether you're a passionate collector or simply curious about diversifying beyond traditional markets, this conversation is for you. 

Sources:   

1. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/investment-management 
2. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/investment/alternative-investments  

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.  

This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate and is intended merely for educational purposes, not as advice.  

Aspen Wealth Management is a registered investment advisor with the SEC. 

This recorded posting utilizes AI generated voiceovers. While the Firm strictly prohibits the use of AI for advisory activities constituting investment advice, financial plans, portfolio analysis and management, and reporting, the use of AI for other purposes, such as voiceovers, is permitted and utilized for the firm’s recordings. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act earlier this year, the tax landscape has shifted significantly for 2025 and beyond. In this episode of Purposeful Planning, we explore the expiring tax credits you need to act on before year-end, the new opportunities for tax savings, and changes that could affect everyone from retirees to small business owners. Whether you're planning for estate transfers or maximizing deductions, understanding these changes is crucial for effective year-end tax planning. 

Sources:   

1. https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/residential-clean-energy-credit  
2. https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/energy-efficient-home-improvement-credit  
3. https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/businesses/sustainable-aviation-fuel-credit  
4. https://bradfordtaxinstitute.com/Content/How-the-OBBBA-Impacts-Your-AMT-Risk-Starting-in-2026.aspx 
5. https://www.hartfordfunds.com/insights/investor-insight/navigating-longevity/social-security/the-obbbas-new-social-security-deduction-what-it-really-means-for-retirees.html 
6. https://smartasset.com/taxes/trumps-plan-to-eliminate-the-state-and-local-tax-deduction-explained  
7. https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2025/08/30/trump-accounts-1000-one-big-beautiful-bill/85855571007/  
8. https://www.laboremploymentlawblog.com/2025/07/articles/employee-benefits/what-employers-should-know-about-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-act-obbba/#:~:text=Bonus%20depreciation%20is%20a%20tax,in%20long%2Dterm%20capital%20planning. 

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate and is intended merely for educational purposes, not as advice. Aspen Wealth Management is a registered investment advisor with the SEC. This recorded posting utilizes AI generated voiceovers. While the Firm strictly prohibits the use of AI for advisory activities constituting investment advice, financial plans, portfolio analysis and management, and reporting, the use of AI for other purposes, such as voiceovers, is permitted and utilized for the firm’s recordings. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dreaming of early retirement? There's a critical detail many people overlook: health insurance coverage in the years before Medicare kicks in at 65. In this episode of Purposeful Planning, we explore the healthcare gap that early retirees face and walk through your options, from the Health Insurance Marketplace to COBRA and Health Savings Accounts. Whether you're planning to retire in your fifties or helping someone navigate this transition, understanding these options is essential for making early retirement work. 

Sources:   

1. https://www.empower.com/the-currency/life/big-life-changes-research 
2. https://crr.bc.edu/will-the-average-retirement-age-keep-rising/ 
3. https://www.transamericainstitute.org/research/publications/details/retiree-life-in-the-post-pandemic-economy-2024  
4. https://www.healthcare.gov/quick-guide/  
5. https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/R48290  
6. https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-25-106798  
7. https://www.kff.org/medicare/retiree-health-benefits-going-going-nearly-gone/#:~:text=For%20the%20past%2025%20years,down%20from%2066%25%20in%201988. 
8. https://www.dol.gov/general/topic/health-plans/cobra  
9. https://www.healthcare.gov/high-deductible-health-plan/hdhp-hsa-work-together/#:~:text=If%20you%20don't%20use,that%20Medicare%20doesn't%20cover.  
10. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/retirement/medicare-made-easy-retirement-healthcare-costs  

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate and is intended merely for educational purposes, not as advice. Aspen Wealth Management is a registered investment advisor with the SEC. This recorded posting utilizes AI generated voiceovers. While the Firm strictly prohibits the use of AI for advisory activities constituting investment advice, financial plans, portfolio analysis and management, and reporting, the use of AI for other purposes, such as voiceovers, is permitted and utilized for the firm’s recordings. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Remember those old Crock-Pots where you could set it and forget it? Estate planning doesn't work that way. In this episode of Purposeful Planning, we examine why the "set-it-and-forget-it" approach to estate planning can lead to costly mistakes, particularly with $80-125 trillion expected to be transferred between generations over the next two decades. From outdated beneficiary designations to changes in tax law, discover why regular reviews are essential and what mistakes to avoid. 

Sources:   

1. https://smartasset.com/taxes/trust-tax-rates 
2. https://taxpolicycenter.org/briefing-book/how-do-state-and-local-estate-and-inheritance-taxes-work 
3. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/financial-planning/next-generation-financial-leadership 
4. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/estate/estate-planning-mistakes-to-avoid 

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.  

This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate and is intended merely for educational purposes, not as advice.  

Aspen Wealth Management is a registered investment advisor with the SEC. 

This recorded posting utilizes AI generated voiceovers. While the Firm strictly prohibits the use of AI for advisory activities constituting investment advice, financial plans, portfolio analysis and management, and reporting, the use of AI for other purposes, such as voiceovers, is permitted and utilized for the firm’s recordings. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Social Security provides retirement income for millions of Americans, yet many people can't answer basic questions about how it works. In this episode of Purposeful Planning, we explore everything from setting up your online account to deciding when to claim benefits. Whether you're helping aging parents navigate their options or planning your own retirement strategy, understanding Social Security is crucial for making informed decisions that could impact your financial security for decades. 

Sources:   

1. https://www.cbpp.org/research/social-security/top-ten-facts-about-social-security#:~:text=It%20also%20provides%20important%20life,Social%20Security%20payroll%20tax%20contributions:  
2. https://www.gobankingrates.com/retirement/social-security/americans-dont-understand-facts-about-social-security/  
3. https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/  
4. https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/agereduction.html 
5. https://www.ssa.gov/faqs/en/questions/KA-02459.html  
6. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/retirement/medicare-made-easy-retirement-healthcare-costs 
7. https://www.aspenwealthmgmt.com/resource-center/blog/social-security-retirement-basics-what-to-know  

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.  

This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate and is intended merely for educational purposes, not as advice.  

Aspen Wealth Management is a registered investment advisor with the SEC. 

This recorded posting utilizes AI generated voiceovers. While the Firm strictly prohibits the use of AI for advisory activities constituting investment advice, financial plans, portfolio analysis and management, and reporting, the use of AI for other purposes, such as voiceovers, is permitted and utilized for the firm’s recordings. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.