Looking back at the week, Jeremiah and Brian dive into the latest job numbers and their surprising market impact, exploring how strong employment figures might influence Federal Reserve decisions and bond yields in the months ahead. They examine the intricacies of Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) and Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs), showing how strategic giving can maximize tax benefits while supporting causes close to your heart. Plus, it’s never been easier to start a business here in the United States. Brian shares a story about how easy it is – no excuses!

Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask!

https://www.therealmoneypros.com

Hosts:

Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates

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SPONSORS:

Guild Mortgage:

https://guildmortgage.com

Ataraxis PEO

https://ataraxispeo.com

Tree City Advisors of Apollon:

https://www.treecityadvisors.com

Apollon Wealth Management:

https://apollonwealthmanagement.com/

Formations:

https://get.formationscorp.com/real-money-pros

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To kick off 2025, Brian Wiley and Jeremiah Bates dive into the year ahead with actionable insights on smart tax strategies, the evolving crypto market, and navigating the housing landscape. They emphasize the power of Roth conversions and other pre-tax tools like HSAs and 401(k)s, providing guidance on how to optimize your tax picture and keep more money in your pocket.

The guys explore how market trends, including semiconductors and other tech investments, could shape 2025. The duo weighs the potential of AI-driven industries and crypto’s long-term prospects, unpacking the implications of regulatory developments for investors. Plus, get tips for tackling the housing market creatively amid high interest rates.

Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask!

https://www.therealmoneypros.com

Hosts:

Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates

—————————————————————

SPONSORS:

Guild Mortgage:

https://guildmortgage.com

Ataraxis PEO

https://ataraxispeo.com

Tree City Advisors of Apollon:

https://www.treecityadvisors.com

Apollon Wealth Management:

https://apollonwealthmanagement.com/

Formations:

https://get.formationscorp.com/real-money-pros

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As we hit the final weeks of December, we’re gearing up for the financial challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in 2025. The conversation kicks off with expert insights on recent market movements, helping you understand what's driving the end-of-year volatility.

Brian and Jeremiah talk about value and growth investing, offering practical guidance on where to focus your attention as interest rates fluctuate and the Federal Reserve sets its course for the coming year. This is a segment worth paying attention to going into January.

Wrapping things up, we dive into year-end tax strategies designed to boost your bottom line. From maximizing Roth conversions to smart tax planning for retirees, these actionable tips will help you make the most of your financial opportunities before the clock strikes midnight on December 31st.

Have a very Merry Christmas!

Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask!

https://www.therealmoneypros.com

Hosts:

Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates

—————————————————————

SPONSORS:

Guild Mortgage:

https://guildmortgage.com

Ataraxis PEO

https://ataraxispeo.com

Tree City Advisors of Apollon:

https://www.treecityadvisors.com

Apollon Wealth Management:

https://apollonwealthmanagement.com/

Formations:

https://get.formationscorp.com/real-money-pros

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Jeremiah Bates and Alex Lundgren kick off the show by addressing common retirement planning mistakes, emphasizing the importance of saving early, adjusting plans over time, and preparing for rising healthcare costs. They highlight how neglecting these steps can derail your financial security in retirement. We see these often! They also dive into effective debt management, offering tips to avoid high-interest traps and use debt strategically.

Tax planning also takes center stage with a discussion on Roth conversions and their potential impact on Medicare premiums and overall tax liability. Jeremiah and Alex stress the importance of understanding how financial actions, like selling assets, affect your tax picture. Plus, advice on investment diversification to manage risks and behavioral finance tips to overcome emotional decision-making that can (and will) harm your portfolio.

Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask!

https://www.therealmoneypros.com

Hosts:

Jeremiah Bates & Alex Lundgren

—————————————————————

SPONSORS:

Guild Mortgage:

https://guildmortgage.com

Ataraxis PEO

https://ataraxispeo.com

Tree City Advisors of Apollon:

https://www.treecityadvisors.com

Apollon Wealth Management:

https://apollonwealthmanagement.com/

Formations:

https://get.formationscorp.com/real-money-pros

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Brian and Jeremiah kick off today's discussion with the concept of simplicity in financial planning—reminding us that overcomplicating strategies can often lead to unnecessary stress. From estate planning to consolidating accounts, they emphasize the value of keeping things straightforward, especially when working across generations within families. The guys also delve into charitable giving and the often-overlooked tax benefits it can provide. By fine-tuning how donations are executed, you can maximize tax savings while supporting causes that matter to you.

Plus, options trading takes center stage as they explain its mechanics, risks, and potential rewards using relatable analogies. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just curious about options, their insights help you understand this complex investment strategy. Remember to be smart about your options trading! Your risk could be unlimited.

Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask!

https://www.therealmoneypros.com

Hosts:

Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates

—————————————————————

SPONSORS:

Guild Mortgage:

https://guildmortgage.com

Ataraxis PEO

https://ataraxispeo.com

Tree City Advisors of Apollon:

https://www.treecityadvisors.com

Apollon Wealth Management:

https://apollonwealthmanagement.com/

Formations:

https://get.formationscorp.com/real-money-pros

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After the shortened trading week, Brian Wiley and Jeremiah Bates tackle the increasing threat of financial scams, particularly those targeting the elderly. With over $10 billion reported lost to scams in 2023, they discuss the importance of vigilance in protecting loved ones and yourself from fraud. 'Tis the season to be scamming!

Additionally, the duo explores elder financial exploitation by trusted individuals, such as family members or caregivers. The hosts discuss systemic vulnerabilities and the vital role of fiduciary responsibility in safeguarding assets. Whether you're navigating caregiving arrangements or seeking ways to assist aging parents, this episode provides insights to protect against exploitation and maintain financial security.

Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask!

https://www.therealmoneypros.com

Hosts:

Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates

—————————————————————

SPONSORS:

Guild Mortgage:

https://guildmortgage.com

Ataraxis PEO

https://ataraxispeo.com

Tree City Advisors of Apollon:

https://www.treecityadvisors.com

Apollon Wealth Management:

https://apollonwealthmanagement.com/

Formations:

https://get.formationscorp.com/real-money-pros

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On this episode, we dive into some of the most important financial strategies you should consider as we approach the end of the year. Whether you’re managing your portfolio solo or working with a financial advisor, we’ll break down how to match your financial needs with the right type of advisory service.

We’ll also talk about the top year-end tax strategies to help you make smarter moves. From tax-loss harvesting to charitable giving through donor-advised funds, these tips could make a big difference in how much you save when tax season rolls around!

Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask!

https://www.therealmoneypros.com

Hosts:

Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates

—————————————————————

SPONSORS:

Guild Mortgage:

https://guildmortgage.com

Ataraxis PEO

https://ataraxispeo.com

Tree City Advisors of Apollon:

https://www.treecityadvisors.com

Apollon Wealth Management:

https://apollonwealthmanagement.com/

Formations:

https://get.formationscorp.com/real-money-pros

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In this shortened show, Brian and Jeremiah examine the ambitious push for government efficiency, including plans to cut $2 trillion in spending. With leaders like Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy at the helm, we explore how transparency and strategic cost-cutting could reshape government operations while addressing public skepticism about bureaucracy. Will it work?

We also take a walk into Roth IRA conversions, highlighting how converting traditional retirement accounts during lower-income years can reduce taxes and secure long-term, tax-free growth. There's a reason we talk about this often. Finally, the episode focuses on managing investment risk through proper diversification and understanding asset performance. Whether navigating crypto markets or balancing a portfolio for retirement, smart risk management is critical for a successful financial plan.

Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask!

https://www.therealmoneypros.com

Hosts:

Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates

—————————————————————

SPONSORS:

Guild Mortgage:

https://guildmortgage.com

Ataraxis PEO

https://ataraxispeo.com

Tree City Advisors of Apollon:

https://www.treecityadvisors.com

Apollon Wealth Management:

https://apollonwealthmanagement.com/

Formations:

https://get.formationscorp.com/real-money-pros

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Jeremiah Bates and Brian Wiley dive into key strategies for tax-efficient retirement income, focusing on Roth conversions and income planning. By understanding tax implications and income thresholds—such as those impacting Medicare premiums and ACA credits—retirees can strategically use Roth conversions to minimize taxes and optimize inheritance planning. This approach helps protect against unexpected tax burdens and offers beneficiaries the advantage of tax-free inherited funds.

The guys also explore how market behavior and national events, like elections, impact investment decisions, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a long-term strategy despite short-term uncertainties. Additionally, they offer insights into national debt concerns as Brian and Jeremiah examine the U.S. debt-to-GDP ratio and its implications for economic stability.

Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask!

https://www.therealmoneypros.com

Hosts:

Brian Wiley & Jeremiah Bates

—————————————————————

SPONSORS:

Guild Mortgage:

https://guildmortgage.com

Ataraxis PEO

https://ataraxispeo.com

Tree City Advisors of Apollon:

https://www.treecityadvisors.com

Apollon Wealth Management:

https://apollonwealthmanagement.com/

Formations:

https://get.formationscorp.com/real-money-pros

—————————————————————

Brian and Alex dive into proactive retirement planning and key strategies to make the most of your savings. We discuss how tax-efficient withdrawals and income planning can maximize funds, especially if you’re retiring before Medicare eligibility. We also cover how withdrawals from accounts like Roth IRAs and 401(k)s impact taxes and health insurance credits, making careful planning essential.

For parents, we share tips on teaching college-aged kids about managing tuition and building financial independence. We also explain the tax implications of 401(k) rollovers and the importance of direct rollovers to avoid penalties. For business owners, we emphasize the need for specialized advisors who understand the unique financial challenges of entrepreneurs. Lastly, we explore why balancing risk in investments is crucial, avoiding the extremes of being too conservative or aggressive.

Listen, Watch, Subscribe, Ask!

https://www.therealmoneypros.com

Hosts:

Brian Wiley & Alexandra Lundgren

—————————————————————

SPONSORS:

Guild Mortgage:

https://guildmortgage.com

Ataraxis PEO

https://ataraxispeo.com

Tree City Advisors of Apollon:

https://www.treecityadvisors.co

Apollon Wealth Management:

https://apollonwealthmanagement.com/

Formations:

https://get.formationscorp.com/real-money-pros

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