In this perspectives episode of Money & Meaning, Jeff Bernier challenges the value of short-term market forecasts and urges listeners to focus instead on long-term financial planning. Drawing from recent blog posts and research by financial thinkers like Bob Seawright, Ruben Miller, and Larry Swedroe, Jeff outlines why predictions often miss the mark and how earnings yield can guide more meaningful expectations. He offers practical advice for building resilient portfolios, emphasizing humility, diversification, and focusing on what we can control in uncertain times. 

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In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier speaks with Harrison Miller, Charitable Planning Consultant at Fidelity Charitable—the nation's largest grant maker. They explore how donor-advised funds offer families, business owners, and advisors strategic, tax-efficient ways to approach charitable giving. Harrison shares how these vehicles help donors align generosity with their values, optimize tax timing, and even involve future generations in giving.

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● Harrison’s career path and role at Fidelity Charitable

● What donor-advised funds are and how they work

● Tax benefits of contributing appreciated assets

● Strategic giving through bunching and timing deductions

● Differences between national donor-advised funds and community foundations

● Managing investments within donor-advised funds

● How grants are made to charities from the fund

● Contributing privately held assets and the planning required

● Using donor-advised funds to engage the next generation

● Options for fund succession and estate planning

● Current trends in charitable giving and legislative considerations

● Why donor-advised funds are gaining popularity over private foundations

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In this solo episode of Money & Meaning, Jeff Bernier explores how markets have a built-in ability to self-correct, a concept informed by his conversations with longtime colleague Larry Swedroe. Jeff ties together research from Joe Wiggins and Jason Zweig to explain how behavior, concentration risk, and market history reveal important lessons for investors. He also revisits the importance of broad diversification and TandemGrowth’s behavioral “bucket approach” for supporting client confidence in uncertain times.

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Disclosures: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered tax or legal advice. Please consult your tax advisor for personalized guidance.

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier speaks with Kacie Walsh, Vice President at Dimensional Fund Advisors. They explore Dimensional’s evolving toolkit of tax-focused investment solutions designed to help clients keep more of what they earn. The conversation spans mutual funds, ETFs, SMAs, exchange funds, and 351 ETFs, explaining how each tool fits into a broader tax management strategy. Kacie also outlines how Dimensional’s daily, data-driven approach supports personalized portfolios and long-term efficiency for investors.

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In this episode of Money & Meaning, Jeff Bernier connects 17th-century philosophy with modern financial planning. Using Blaise Pascal’s wager as a framework, Jeff examines how retirement planning isn’t about certainty—but resilience. He discusses scenario analysis, the role of Plan B, and why the best financial plans aren’t fixed, but adaptable. This episode is a timely reminder that thoughtful preparation—not prediction—brings peace of mind in uncertain times. 

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In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier welcomes Rob Hoxton, founder of Hoxton Planning & Management and host of the Last Paycheck podcast. Rob shares his journey from aspiring minister to financial planner, exploring how life experiences shaped his unique approach to wealth management. They examine the evolving role of financial advisors, the impact of AI, and how to define a meaningful retirement. The conversation offers a compelling look at purpose-driven financial planning, multi-generational firm growth, and Rob’s vision for making a difference in underserved communities.

Topics covered:

● Rob Hoxton’s path from ministry to financial planning

● The philosophy behind Grow Greener and Think Ahead

● Defining “live rich vs. die rich” in financial planning

● Experience at Goldman Sachs and returning to independence

● Working with his son and building a multi-generational firm

● The future of financial planning with AI and technology

● Using AI tools to enhance human connection in advising

● Childhood money memories and their impact on financial behavior

● Helping clients uncover what matters most through money mind exercises

● Reframing retirement as a purpose-driven next act

● Rob’s “why” and the mission to serve more families

● Launching Shepherd University's financial planning program

● Looking forward: Rob’s excitement for family, business, and mentorship

● Encouragement for listeners seeking the right financial advisor

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In this Perspectives episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier explores key year-end tax planning strategies shaped by recent legislation. He breaks down thresholds, deductions, and opportunities to optimize charitable giving—particularly through donor-advised funds and gifting appreciated securities. Jeff also covers how Roth conversions and qualified charitable distributions can be integrated into a comprehensive strategy aligned with both financial goals and personal values.

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Disclosures: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered tax or legal advice. Please consult your tax advisor for personalized guidance.

In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier speaks with Carl Richards, certified financial planner and creator of the New York Times "Sketch Guy" column. Carl discusses his newest book, Your Money: Reimagining Wealth in Simple Sketches, a collection of drawings and essays that spark meaningful financial conversations. Together, they explore why strong financial decisions often begin with reflection, how we view money differently, and the value of building general resilience. Carl also shares practical approaches to planning and decision-making that align money with personal values.

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In this episode of Money & Meaning: Perspectives, host Jeff Bernier explores the tension between recognizing serious economic headwinds—such as massive government debt, rising interest rates, and a shifting global financial system—and maintaining a posture of rational optimism. Drawing on insights from Howard Marks, Brian Westbury, Matt Ridley, Mion Tuby, Gail Pooley, and Nick Murray, Jeff examines how to address sobering realities while staying committed to progress, resilience, and long-term investing. It’s a call to balance—informing your perspective without letting fear dictate your financial or life decisions.

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● The reality and risks of rising U.S. government debt and higher interest costs

● Howard Marks’ concerns about ignoring economic fundamentals

● Brian Westbury’s warning on government crowding out private innovation

● Foreign demand for U.S. debt and potential consequences of decline

● The psychological trap of pessimism in investing and life decisions

● Matt Ridley’s framework for rational optimism

● Data from Superabundance on human progress and resource abundance

● Nick Murray’s reminder to “own the future” through consistent participation

● The role of resilience in both economies and investment portfolios

● Diversification as a tool for emotional and financial stability

● Practical ways to stay informed without becoming paralyzed by fear

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In this episode of Money & Meaning, host Jeff Bernier welcomes Neil Bage, co-founder of Shaping Wealth, for a wide-ranging conversation on the human side of financial decision-making. They explore how neuroscience, behavioral science, and the pursuit of “funded contentment” intersect in personal finance. Neil shares his journey, the mission of Shaping Wealth, and frameworks like Ikigai to help individuals live more meaningful financial lives. A must-listen for advisors and investors alike addressing life’s transitions.

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