In this Friday Q&A edition of Talking Real Money, Don tackles listener questions ranging from the dangers of options trading and critiques of Dave Ramsey, to building a simple 60/40 portfolio, comparing flat-fee versus AUM advisors, and whether international bonds deserve a spot in a portfolio. Along the way, he mixes in humor, candid pushback, and practical advice while emphasizing clarity, simplicity, and the importance of asking good questions.

0:04 Intro, gratitude for enough listener questions to fill a show

1:20 Why Don won’t recommend any book on options trading

3:29 Caller defends Dave Ramsey and critiques Don & Tom’s take

5:55 Don responds, clarifies criticisms, and acknowledges Ramsey’s positive impact

8:00 Portfolio question from Andy: building a 60/40 with a value tilt

11:14 Flat fee vs. AUM advisors—when each makes sense

13:41 Bond question: Fidelity vs. Vanguard total bond funds, and role of international bonds

17:27 Don on thick skin as a talk show host and why critique is welcome

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