Crushing nearly a million dollars in debt might sound impossible—but not for Drs. Nii and Renée Darko. In this episode, we dive into their journey from overwhelmed to financially empowered as they share exactly how they tackled over $660,000 in debt within 3 years. The hosts of Docs Outside the Box open up about the budgeting strategies that worked, how they prioritized debt repayment, and their path to financial independence. We also unpack the pitfalls of certain insurance products, how they navigated questionable financial advice, and ultimately found a trustworthy financial advisor.  Whether you're tackling debt or just looking to make smarter financial decisions, this candid conversation provides valuable insights and actionable tips you won’t want to miss.

[00:02:43] Wealthy Insights with Drs. Nii and Renée Darko
[00:05:12] How a Physician Couple Manages and Overcomes Debt
[00:09:20] Proven Budgeting Tips and Smart Financial Strategies
[00:20:25] Balancing Career Demands with a Fulfilling Personal Life
[00:23:24] How the Darkos Tackled over $660,000 in Debt in 3 years
[00:24:11] How Debt Influences Family Planning Decisions
[00:25:46] Key Lessons We Learned About Life Insurance
[00:33:32] How to Choose the Right Financial Advisor for Your Goals

Sign up for our Negotiate Like a BOSS accelerator! In the program, you’ll learn how to increase your salary, decrease burnout, and optimize your schedule to create the life you desire! 

🎉This episode is sponsored by  PKA Insurance Group, Inc. - Helping you find the best value with personalized insurance solutions. Reach out to PKA Insurance Group to discuss your disability or life insurance needs by calling +1 800-258-1018 or emailing [email protected].

Got money questions you'd like us to tackle on our next segment of Wealthy Wonders? Visit our page to submit your query.

Be sure to go to our website to join the Wealthy Minds Community and download a FREE copy of our Wealthy Minds Blueprint.

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Wishing you a fantastic week ahead and happy wealth building!

Negotiation is a powerful skill that can help you get more from your career. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kayla Marshall to hear how she confidently negotiated a $15,000 salary increase and better work conditions after going through our Negotiate Like a Boss Accelerator program. Dr. Marshall talks about what it really took—getting clear on her value, preparing for the conversation, and showing up with confidence. Her story is a great example of what’s possible when you decide to advocate for yourself. If you’re a physician looking to earn more and create a better work-life balance, this episode is full of practical tips and real inspiration. Tune in and learn how to negotiate for what you deserve.

[00:01:45] Key Insights on Physician Contracts and Negotiation
[00:03:41] How to Create Your Ideal Job
[00:06:29] Negotiate Like a Boss Accelerator
[00:09:49] Client Success Story: Dr. Kayla Marshall Negotiates a $15K Salary Increase
[00:15:42] Why Investing in Yourself Pays Off

Sign up for our Negotiate Like a BOSS accelerator! In the program, you’ll learn how to increase your salary, decrease burnout, and optimize your schedule to create the life you desire! 

🎉This episode is sponsored by  PKA Insurance Group, Inc. - Helping you find the best value with personalized insurance solutions. Reach out to PKA Insurance Group to discuss your disability or life insurance needs by calling +1 800-258-1018 or emailing [email protected].

Got money questions you'd like us to tackle on our next segment of Wealthy Wonders? Visit our page to submit your query.

Be sure to go to our website to join the Wealthy Minds Community and download a FREE copy of our Wealthy Minds Blueprint.

Claim your debt freedom with our boot camp!

Don't forget to rate and review the show to help others discover us! When you do, you'll have a chance to win a free drink on us.

Wishing you a fantastic week ahead and happy wealth building!

Hiring your child might sound unconventional, but it can be a smart tax-saving strategy when done right. In this episode, we cover everything you need to know about hiring your child as an employee for your business—from the benefits of shifting income from a higher tax bracket to a lower one, and the tax deductions that come along with it to the detailed guidelines on age-appropriate tasks, industry-standard wages, documentation, and payroll systems. We also highlight the long-term perks of earned income, like opening a Roth IRA for your child. Tune in to learn the essential dos and don’ts of hiring your children effectively and responsibly.

[00:10:03] How To Hire Your Children For Your Business
[00:24:21] Understanding IRS Guidelines for Hiring Your Child
[00:24:47] Payment Strategies And Task Allocation For Child Employees
[00:25:15] Tax Benefits, Hiring Rules and Compliance for Employing Children
[00:28:46] Business Structures and Tax Implications of Hiring Your Child
[00:33:53] Maximizing Financial Benefits Of Employing Your Child
[00:38:46] Dos and Don'ts of Hiring Your Child

Sign up for our Negotiate Like a BOSS accelerator! In the program, you’ll learn how to increase your salary, decrease burnout, and optimize your schedule to create the life you desire! 

🎉This episode is sponsored by  PKA Insurance Group, Inc. - Helping you find the best value with personalized insurance solutions. Reach out to PKA Insurance Group to discuss your disability or life insurance needs by calling +1 800-258-1018 or emailing [email protected].

Got money questions you'd like us to tackle on our next segment of Wealthy Wonders? Visit our page to submit your query.

Be sure to go to our website to join the Wealthy Minds Community and download a FREE copy of our Wealthy Minds Blueprint.

Claim your debt freedom with our boot camp!

Don't forget to rate and review the show to help others discover us! When you do, you'll have a chance to win a free drink on us.

Wishing you a fantastic week ahead and happy wealth building!

Vetting financial advisors by evaluating their credentials, fees, and alignment with your goals helps you make an informed choice and find the right professional for your financial needs. In this episode, we discuss how to evaluate your financial advisor effectively, offering tips on asking the right questions to ensure your advisor is meeting expectations. Learn how to verify if your portfolio's performance aligns with market averages, understand the importance of minimizing expenses, and grasp the balance between stocks and bonds. Tune in now to maximize your financial advisor's effectiveness and ensure your investments are in good hands.

[00:07:57] Understanding Cash Balance Plans
[00:20:24] Tips for Working with a Financial Advisor to Reach Your Financial Goals
[00:23:06] Choosing the Right Financial Advisor: Fee-Only vs. Fee-Based
[00:24:39] Key Questions to Ask Your Financial Advisor Before You Hire Them
[00:27:28] How to Understand Investment Performance and Compare It to the Market
[00:29:07] Why Regular Financial Check-Ins Are Essential for Long-Term Success

Sign up for our Negotiate Like a BOSS Accelerator! In the program, you’ll learn how to increase your salary, decrease burnout, and optimize your schedule to create the life you desire! 

 
🎉This episode is sponsored by  PKA Insurance Group, Inc. - Helping you find the best value with personalized insurance solutions. Reach out to PKA Insurance Group to discuss your disability or life insurance needs by calling +1 800-258-1018 or emailing [email protected].

Got money questions you'd like us to tackle on our next segment of Wealthy Wonders? Visit our page to submit your query.

Be sure to go to our website to join the Wealthy Minds Community and download a FREE copy of our Wealthy Minds Blueprint.

Claim your debt freedom with our boot camp!

Don't forget to rate and review the show to help others discover us! When you do, you'll have a chance to win a free drink on us.

Wishing you a fantastic week ahead and happy wealth building!

Your contract is likely approaching its automatic renewal date, but that doesn’t mean you have to settle for the same terms. In this episode, we share practical, high-impact tips on how to renegotiate your work contract before it auto-renews. Learn how to determine your value, identify who has the authority to approve changes, compare your compensation to industry standards, and clearly define what you want—whether it's a new pay structure, a different schedule, or a change in location. We also highlight why timing matters, especially around the end of the fiscal year. Tune in for actionable advice to help you secure better pay, improved schedules, and more favorable work conditions.

[00:02:54] How to Negotiate Your Salary and Employment Contract Effectively
[00:14:52] Step-by-Step Guide to Renegotiating Your Work Contract
[00:26:29] How to Get Your Manager’s Support in Contract Negotiations
[00:27:08] Using Negotiation Scripts to Boost Your Confidence and Results
[00:28:06] How to Determine Your Market Value Before Negotiating
[00:30:44] Identifying Key Contract Changes: Salary, Schedule, Location
[00:33:12] Negotiation Tips for Non-Salary Benefits and Work Conditions
[00:40:36] How to Clearly Articulate Your Professional Value

Ready to increase your income at your job? Join the waitlist for our Negotiate Like a BOSS accelerator!

🎉This episode is sponsored by  PKA Insurance Group, Inc. - Helping you find the best value with personalized insurance solutions. Reach out to PKA Insurance Group to discuss your disability or life insurance needs by calling +1 800-258-1018 or emailing [email protected].

Got money questions you'd like us to tackle on our next segment of Wealthy Wonders? Visit our page to submit your query.

Be sure to go to our website to join the Wealthy Minds Community and download a FREE copy of our Wealthy Minds Blueprint.

Claim your debt freedom with our boot camp!

 

Don't forget to rate and review the show to help others discover us! When you do, you'll have a chance to win a free drink on us.

Wishing you a fantastic week ahead and happy wealth building!

The economic headlines might feel overwhelming; stocks are going up, stocks are going down, and maybe you or people around you are starting to panic—but there are smart ways to protect your finances. In this episode, we address the recent fluctuations in the stock market, the impact of tariffs, and the financial uncertainty many are facing. We discuss the importance of maintaining a long-term investment strategy and offer actionable advice on securing income through long-term disability insurance, revisiting debt payoff strategies, and maintaining multiple income streams. Plus, learn the importance of diversifying investments and being prepared for potential economic downturns while making smart financial decisions. Tune in now as we detail our plan of action amidst economic chaos.

[00:03:47] Current Economic Climate and Its Impact on Careers
[00:08:05] Market Fluctuations and Investment Strategies
[00:20:09] Debt Payoff Strategies and Financial Adjustments
[00:27:13] Navigating Tax Season: 1099 Income and Quarterly Payments
[00:31:18] Conference Trip to St. Louis and Easter Fun

Ready to increase your income at your job? Join the waitlist for our Negotiate Like a BOSS accelerator!

🎉This episode is sponsored by  PKA Insurance Group, Inc. - Helping you find the best value with personalized insurance solutions. Reach out to PKA Insurance Group to discuss your disability or life insurance needs by calling +1 800-258-1018 or emailing [email protected].

Got money questions you'd like us to tackle on our next segment of Wealthy Wonders? Visit our page to submit your query.

Be sure to go to our website to join the Wealthy Minds Community and download a FREE copy of our Wealthy Minds Blueprint.

Don't forget to rate and review the show to help others discover us! When you do, you'll have a chance to win a free drink on us.

Wishing you a fantastic week ahead and happy wealth building!

What do you do with an old 401(k)? Should  single people buy life insurance? And how do you let yourself actually enjoy your money after years of frugal living?

In this episode, we answer listener-submitted questions that touch on common financial challenges physicians face. We break down rollover options for a small 401(k), including pros and cons of using a Roth IRA or your new employer’s plan. We also dive into when life insurance is necessary and when it might be okay to wait.  Plus, for those struggling to transition out of the frugal residency mindset, we share strategies for spending with intention while still staying on track financially. Tune in for actionable advice and real-life insight to help you navigate these key financial decisions with clarity and confidence.

[00:05:32] Navigating Financial Differences in Marriage
[00:10:45] What to Do With an Old 401(k)?
[00:17:30] Do I Need Life Insurance as a Single 30-Year-Old Woman?
[00:22:40] How to Shift From a Saver Mindset to Allowing Spending?
[00:26:53] Destination Weddings & First-Class Flights

We want to enhance your podcast experience with us. Please fill out our super quick 6-question survey. Your input helps us to deliver content that resonates with you!

🎉This episode is sponsored by  PKA Insurance Group, Inc. - Helping you find the best value with personalized insurance solutions. Reach out to PKA Insurance Group to discuss your disability or life insurance needs by calling +1 800-258-1018 or emailing [email protected].

Got money questions you'd like us to tackle on our next segment of Wealthy Wonders? Visit our page to submit your query.

Be sure to go to our website to join the Wealthy Minds Community and download a FREE copy of our Wealthy Minds Blueprint.

Claim your debt freedom with our boot camp!

Don't forget to rate and review the show to help others discover us! When you do, you'll have a chance to win a free drink on us.

Wishing you a fantastic week ahead and happy wealth building!

If you have access to a 457(b) through your employer and you're trying to figure out whether it's a smart move for your financial future, we've got you covered. In this episode, we dive into the intricacies of the 457(b) retirement account, a powerful yet often overlooked option for high-income earners. We break down the key advantages, such as tax-saving benefits and investment growth, and walk you through the critical considerations, including employer stability, income thresholds, and distribution rules. We also explain the differences between governmental and non-governmental plans and why that distinction matters. Tune in for a detailed analysis to help you determine whether a 457(b) fits into your long-term financial strategy!

[00:02:08] It’s Dr. Brittne Halford’s Birthday!
[00:11:02] Understanding 457(b) Retirement Accounts
[00:20:54] Drawbacks of Deferred Compensation Plans for High-Income Earners
[00:23:51] Income Thresholds and Work Requirements for 457(b) Plans
[00:24:56] 457(b) Distribution Options & Tax Implications
[00:26:35] Governmental vs. Non-Governmental 457(b) Plans
[00:29:27] Should You Contribute to a 457(b)?

We want to enhance your podcast experience with us. Please fill out our super quick 6-question survey. Your input helps us to deliver content that resonates with you!

🎉This episode is sponsored by  PKA Insurance Group, Inc. - Helping you find the best value with personalized insurance solutions. Reach out to PKA Insurance Group to discuss your disability or life insurance needs by calling +1 800-258-1018 or emailing [email protected].

Got money questions you'd like us to tackle on our next segment of Wealthy Wonders? Visit our page to submit your query.

Be sure to go to our website to join the Wealthy Minds Community and download a FREE copy of our Wealthy Minds Blueprint.

Claim your debt freedom with our boot camp!
 

Don't forget to rate and review the show to help others discover us! When you do, you'll have a chance to win a free drink on us.

Wishing you a fantastic week ahead and happy wealth building!

Taxes don’t have to be a headache, especially when you know how to work the system! In this episode, we’re diving into non-traditional tax-saving strategies for high-income earners. Learn how Dr. Brittne saved $25,000 on her taxes by investing in oil and gas. We’re breaking down the benefits, risks, and key steps to vetting these alternative investments, so you can decide if they’re the right fit for your financial strategy. Plus, we’re covering how to maximize immediate deductions and build long-term wealth while keeping more of your hard-earned money. Tune in to learn how to effectively reduce your tax burden while diversifying your investment portfolio.

[00:13:41] Tax Season Tips & Smart Strategies to Maximize Savings
[00:22:49] How to Make Your First Investment in Oil and Gas
[00:23:04] Oil and Gas Investment Tax Benefits, Risks, and Challenges
[00:35:56] How to Evaluate and Vet Oil and Gas Investment Opportunities
[00:41:37] Understanding Tax Implications and Returns from Oil and Gas Investments
[00:46:36] Who Should Consider Oil and Gas Investments?

We want to enhance your podcast experience with us. Please fill out our super quick 6-question survey. Your input helps us to deliver content that resonates with you!

🎉This episode is sponsored by  PKA Insurance Group, Inc. - Helping you find the best value with personalized insurance solutions. Reach out to PKA Insurance Group to discuss your disability or life insurance needs by calling +1 800-258-1018 or emailing [email protected].

Got money questions you'd like us to tackle on our next segment of Wealthy Wonders? Visit our page to submit your query.

Be sure to go to our website to join the Wealthy Minds Community and download a FREE copy of our Wealthy Minds Blueprint.

Claim your debt freedom with our boot camp!
 

Don't forget to rate and review the show to help others discover us! When you do, you'll have a chance to win a free drink on us.

Wishing you a fantastic week ahead and happy wealth building!

Tax season is approaching, and while it might feel like a roller coaster, we’ve got your back! In this episode, we’re sharing practical strategies to navigate the chaos, reduce stress, and stay on top of your tax game. Discover how to make the most of tax professionals and strategists, manage the flood of tax documents, and uncover valuable deductions, even if you don’t have a mortgage or kids. We also break down the perks of filing tax extensions, the importance of making quarterly tax payments, and how to maximize credit card points when paying your taxes. Plus, we’re spilling the details on how to stay organized, save money, and keep tax season from feeling overwhelming. Tune in for tips that’ll make tax season feel a little less taxing! 

[00:02:04] Tax Season Struggles and Strategies
[00:04:00] How Employing Your Child Can Provide Tax Benefits
[00:13:33] Hiring a Tax Accountant vs. Doing It Yourself
[00:24:25] Navigating Business Partnership Taxes
[00:25:21] Mastering the Basics of Tax Filing and Compliance
[00:28:02] The Benefits of Filing Tax Extensions and Exploring Cash Balance Plans
[00:34:03] Quarterly Tax Payments and How to Navigate Safe Harbor Rules
[00:40:45] Maximizing Tax Deductions
[00:45:15] 'Fun money' moments after managing their tax obligations

We want to enhance your podcast experience with us. Please fill out our super quick 6-question survey. Your input helps us to deliver content that resonates with you!

🎉This episode is sponsored by  PKA Insurance Group, Inc. - Helping you find the best value with personalized insurance solutions. Reach out to PKA Insurance Group to discuss your disability or life insurance needs by calling +1 800-258-1018 or emailing [email protected].

Got money questions you'd like us to tackle on our next segment of Wealthy Wonders? Visit our page to submit your query.

Be sure to go to our website to join the Wealthy Minds Community and download a FREE copy of our Wealthy Minds Blueprint.

Claim your debt freedom with our boot camp!
 

Don't forget to rate and review the show to help others discover us! When you do, you'll have a chance to win a free drink on us.

Wishing you a fantastic week ahead and happy wealth building!