Retirement planning can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to understand how different income sources will work together. Are you making decisions based on what worked for someone else, or on what truly fits your situation?

In this episode, Adrian and Alison Castellano walk through how Social Security works at every stage of life, from your twenties when it feels distant to your sixties when filing decisions become real. They explain how benefits are calculated, the impact of claiming early versus waiting, and why Social Security should be viewed as one piece of your overall retirement strategy rather than a standalone decision.

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Have you ever caught yourself justifying a purchase with creative mental math? 

Maybe thinking that preloaded app money makes your coffee free, or that a dress is automatically 50% off because you only bought one item.

In this episode, Alison and Adrian Castellano explore the viral trend of girl math and what it reveals about our relationship with money. They share relatable examples from their own lives and discuss how these mental shortcuts can work for us or against us. 

The conversation focuses on understanding the emotional side of spending, building awareness around purchases, and creating systems that align with personal values and financial goals.

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People talk about the Santa Claus Rally every December, but most investors never understand what is actually happening beneath the surface. 

Jack and Adrian break down why the final trading days of the year often feel surprisingly strong and what it reveals about market psychology, timing, and cash flow. They open up the conversation with humor, a bit of holiday spirit, and a practical look at how optimism, low trading volume, bonuses, rebalancing, and investor behavior all intersect.

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When the daycare bill finally disappears, most families don’t notice the extra money for long; it vanishes into everyday spending. 

Adrian and Alison Castellano explain why the daycare transition is one of the most powerful money moments young families face and how to avoid lifestyle creep. From redirecting half your daycare savings into retirement or college to automating new habits that “pay your future self,” this discussion reveals how small, intentional steps can compound into hundreds of thousands of dollars.

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Old accounts, forgotten 401(k)s, outdated beneficiaries, this ‘money clutter’ lurks in nearly every household.

In this episode, Jack Burnette and Alison Castellano share why cleaning up your financial junk drawer matters and how to tackle it without feeling overwhelmed. From tracking down long-forgotten retirement accounts to using state unclaimed property databases, you’ll hear real-life examples (including a $400 surprise) and practical steps to create clarity and confidence in your finances.

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Building wealth isn’t reserved for high earners,  and Alison and Adrian Castellano prove it’s possible at any income level.

In this episode, they share their journey from modest incomes to financial stability, breaking down the myths that keep families from feeling secure. From redefining wealth around your values to avoiding lifestyle creep, they offer five practical steps anyone can start today: know your numbers, spend intentionally, automate savings, avoid lifestyle creep, and invest early and often.

You’ll hear how everyday decisions, even small ones, can add up over time, and why financial confidence is as valuable as any dollar amount.

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What do fake text messages, Nigerian princes, and high-tech AI scams have in common? 

They’re all digital fraud tactics, and they’re more sophisticated than ever! 

Join our hosts, Alison and Adrian Castellano, as they dive deep into the world of online scams and arm you with the tools to protect yourself. Listen as they unravel the complex web of digital fraud. From fake package delivery texts to deepfake videos and AI-generated emails, no one is safe, not even city governments! Gain practical advice on recognizing scams, securing your personal information, and protecting your loved ones from online threats.

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What can you do with a raise to make it truly impactful? How can you prevent it from slipping through the cracks of everyday expenses?

Adrian and Alison Castellano delve into the exciting realm of managing a new raise. They explore how that extra bump in income doesn’t just mean more cash to burn but can be transformative in achieving your financial goals. By pausing before spending, aligning new funds with your personal goals, and even automating some financial decisions, this episode provides you with the tools to make your raise matter.

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Jack Burnette, Alison Castellano, and Adrian Castellano continue their mission to decode financial jargon, diving into bull and bear markets, volatility, and even Warren Buffett’s timeless advice, as they work to demystify market complexities and guide you toward a resilient investment mindset.

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Financial terms like fiduciary, inflation, and annuity can be more than just confusing—they can feel downright intimidating.

Join Jack Burnette, Alison Castellano, and Adrian Castellano from Iter Financial Wellness as they break down complex financial jargon into simple, practical insights. With their clear and approachable style, they empower you to make informed and decisive financial choices.

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