You may be wondering whether you still need a tax advisor to file your taxes and help with tax planning, and what to look for if you do. In this episode, we are once again joined by Ben Martinek of Bona Fide Finance as we share insights on tax strategies, the importance of proactive tax planning, and the role of a tax advisor in managing both current and long-term tax liabilities. Learn when it makes sense to switch from DIY tax software to professional help and why having a solid plan is key to minimizing tax surprises. Tune in to learn how to make smarter, more confident tax decisions.

[00:07:53] Tax Planning Strategies for High-Income Earners with Ben Martinek
[00:19:45] When to Hire a Tax Professional vs DIY Tax Software
[00:27:18] How to Navigate Complex Tax Situations
[00:35:17] Maximizing Tax Deductions and Benefits for W-2 Earners
[00:36:45] Smart Tax Strategies for 1099 and Self-Employed Income
[00:44:32] Working with Financial Advisors for Long-Term Tax Planning

🎉 This episode is sponsored by Bona Fide Finance – Trusted financial advisors offering flat-fee, comprehensive planning to help you build wealth and financial security. Book a consultation at bonafidefinance.com/wealthmindedmd or email [email protected] and tell them we sent you.

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!

Many people reach the end of the month wondering why there is less money left than expected, and your spending personality may be the reason. In this episode, we break down common spending behaviors that can impact your financial stability, including the aspirational spender, fear-based spender, convenience spender, status-based spender, emotional spender, and social spender. We explore how each of these habits affects your finances and share practical strategies to manage and correct them. Tune in to learn how understanding your spending personality can lead to smarter financial decisions and healthier money habits.

[00:08:45] Identifying Your Spending Personality
[00:12:24] Aspirational Spenders and Future-Focused Spending
[00:17:38] Fear-Based Spenders and Financial Anxiety
[00:21:50] Convenience Spenders and Everyday Money Leaks
[00:25:33] Status-Based Spending and Lifestyle Creep
[00:29:03] Emotional Spending and Retail Therapy
[00:32:00] Social Spending, Generosity, and Financial Obligations

🎉 This episode is sponsored by Bona Fide Finance – Trusted financial advisors offering flat-fee, comprehensive planning to help you build wealth and financial security. Book a consultation at bonafidefinance.com/wealthmindedmd or email [email protected] and tell them we sent you.

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!

New Year's resolutions can feel exhausting, so this year we’re exploring a different way to improve your life. In this episode, we dive into practical approaches for enhancing your life without relying on traditional resolutions. From balancing optimization and simplicity across investments, debt management, and personal time, we also highlight the importance of setting goals that truly align with your values and conducting periodic financial and time audits to help you stay aligned, efficient, and more in control of your life. Tune in to gain clarity, focus, and actionable strategies you can put into practice now.

[00:05:30] Optimizing Life in the New Year
[00:08:40] Time Management and Goal Setting
[00:15:29] Reflecting on 2025 Goals
[00:18:31] Optimizing for Happiness Over Money
[00:23:31] Evaluating and Refinancing Debt
[00:27:07] Tax Implications and Asset Management

🎉 This episode is sponsored by Bona Fide Finance – Trusted financial advisors offering flat-fee, comprehensive planning to help you build wealth and financial security. Book a consultation at bonafidefinance.com/wealthmindedmd or email [email protected] and tell them we sent you.

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!

2026 is the perfect time to reset, rebuild, and refocus your financial life. In this episode, we dive into practical ways to reduce money stress, build a stronger financial cushion, and increase your financial efficiency. We break down how addressing both your physical systems and mindset limitations can dramatically improve your outcomes. You’ll learn how to set goals rooted in autonomy and margin while optimizing your habits, systems, and environment for a more balanced and sustainable financial life. Tune in to start 2026 with clarity, intention, and momentum.

[00:06:25] How to Set Effective Financial Goals for 2026
[00:07:56] Creating Margin in Your Life and Finances for Better Stability
[00:09:43] Identifying and Understanding Your Financial Pressure Points
[00:15:37] Building Simple Systems for Long-Term Financial Success
[00:19:37] Reflecting on Past Financial Goals and Overcoming Friction Points
[00:24:54] Why Embracing Inefficiency Can Create More Space and Clarity
[00:30:57] Optimizing What You Already Own to Improve Your Finances

🎉 This episode is sponsored by Bona Fide Finance – Trusted financial advisors offering flat-fee, comprehensive planning to help you build wealth and financial security. Book a consultation at bonafidefinance.com/wealthmindedmd or email [email protected] and tell them we sent you.

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!

Stepping into 2026 with stronger finances starts with intention. In this episode, we dive into the shifts that help you elevate your money life in the new year, from continuing your financial education and increasing your investments to automating your savings and giving with purpose. We also explore the role of fun purchases, the value of intentional splurges, and how to enjoy the rewards of all your hard work without guilt. Tune in and start building your momentum for a more empowered financial year.

[00:07:05] New Year Money Challenges
[00:07:36] Continuing Financial Education
[00:13:46] Increasing Investments for Financial Freedom
[00:18:52] Automating Savings for Financial Success
[00:23:54] Finding Meaningful Ways to Give
[00:28:08] Allowing Yourself to Splurge
[00:31:03] Optimizing Existing Finances

🎉 This episode is sponsored by Bona Fide Finance – Trusted financial advisors offering flat-fee, comprehensive planning to help you build wealth and financial security. Book a consultation at bonafidefinance.com/wealthmindedmd or email [email protected] and tell them we sent you.

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!

It’s the last day of 2025, and we’re reflecting on the lessons that shaped our money decisions and the insights guiding us into 2026. In this episode, we break down key financial takeaways from the past year, including how to escape the comparison trap, and how to evaluate the true cost of earning more. We also discuss the role of intentional splurges, why utility matters more than status in spending, and how trying new experiences can maximize joy. Tune in as we close out the year with clarity and step into 2026 with purpose.

[00:06:25] Overcoming Financial Comparison and Building Contentment
[00:13:14] The True Cost of Making More Money (Time, Stress, Lifestyle Tradeoffs
[00:21:35] Intentional Splurging: How Strategic Spending Increases Joy
[00:26:48] Utility Over Status in Spending
[00:31:13] Why New Experiences Create More Happiness Than Things
[00:34:01] How to Measure Joy Holistically in Your Financial Life

🎉 This episode is sponsored by Bona Fide Finance – Trusted financial advisors offering flat-fee, comprehensive planning to help you build wealth and financial security. Book a consultation at bonafidefinance.com/wealthmindedmd or email [email protected] and tell them we sent you.

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!

During 2025, we’ve read lots of books, listen to tons of podcasts, and talk to numerous people. In this Christmas Eve episode, we reflect on their biggest takeaways and money lessons from 2025. From the importance of not judging others' financial decisions to understanding how to minimize future regret, the discussion is insightful and relatable. Learn the significance of happiness elements such as good health, quality relationships, meaningful work, and appreciating art and nature. Tune in now to wrap up the year with perspective, gratitude, and a little holiday cheer.

[00:07:33] 2025 Money Reflections and Financial Lessons Learned

[00:08:23] Why You Shouldn’t Judge Other People’s Financial Decisions

[00:18:40] How to Minimize Future Regret With Better Money Choices

[00:23:08] Comfort vs. Convenience: How Lifestyle Choices Affect Your Finances

[00:23:28] The Main Elements of Happiness

[00:28:10] The Hidden Downsides of a Completely Stress-Free Life

[00:35:17] The Irony of Desire: Why More Doesn’t Always Mean Happier

🎉 This episode is sponsored by Bona Fide Finance – Trusted financial advisors offering flat-fee, comprehensive planning to help you build wealth and financial security. Book a consultation at bonafidefinance.com/wealthmindedmd or email [email protected] and tell them we sent you.

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 are looking to get your finances on track and thinking about hiring a financial advisor, this is for you. In this episode, we are joined by Ben Martinek, founder and lead advisor at Bona Fide Finance, to help you end the year strong and start the new year off right. We dive into the benefits of hiring a financial advisor, Ben and his team’s approach to financial planning, and how he integrates tax advisory and student loan management into his services. You will also learn about investment strategies, personalized financial advice, and guidance on making smart financial decisions as a physician. Plus, Ben shares practical end of year tips and advice for starting the new year right, highlighting the importance of having a plan, a strong mindset, and being resourceful when managing your finances.

[00:04:57] Wealthy Insight: Ben Martinek of Bona Fide Finance 
[00:10:27] Ben Martinek’s Background as a Financial Advisor and His Planning Philosophy
[00:30:11] Navigating Student Loans: Repayment Strategies and Key Options to Consider
[00:34:07] Comprehensive Financial and Tax Planning for Physicians
[00:35:51] How Integrated Tax Services Strengthen Financial Planning
[00:41:13] Transparent Fee Structures and What Clients Can Expect
[00:49:21] End-of-Year Financial Planning Tips for High Earners

🎉 This episode is sponsored by Bona Fide Finance – Trusted financial advisors offering flat-fee, comprehensive planning to help you build wealth and financial security. Book a consultation at bonafidefinance.com/wealthmindedmd or email [email protected] and tell them we sent you.

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!

 There are many mistakes that people make when contributing to their 401k or 403b at their job. In this episode, find out what they are and how to avoid those pitfalls. We discuss the importance of contributing enough to get the full employer match, understanding Roth vs. traditional contributions, and ensuring your money is properly invested. Plus, hear about the significance of not cashing out when switching jobs, remembering old 401k accounts, and familiarizing yourself with vesting rules. Learn the implications of student loans on employer matching and highlight the changes introduced by the SE Secure 2.0 Act.

[00:07:42] 401k Mistakes to Avoid
[00:09:09] Understanding Employer Matches and Student Loans
[00:16:09] Investment Strategies for 401k and 403b
[00:20:35] Managing 401k When Switching Jobs
[00:23:56] Avoiding Temptation with 401k Transfers
[00:24:42] The Problem of Forgotten Retirement Accounts
[00:29:09] Understanding Roth vs. Traditional 401k
[00:35:13] The Importance of Vesting Rules

If you'd like deeper insight into one of the points Brittne mentioned, specifically the Secure Act 2.0 student loan retirement match, you can learn more here.

🎉 This episode is sponsored by Bona Fide Finance – Trusted financial advisors offering flat-fee, comprehensive planning to help you build wealth and financial security. Book a consultation at bonafidefinance.com/wealthmindedmd or email [email protected] and tell them we sent you.

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!

We all make mistakes, and as we step into 2026, it’s the perfect time to leave the 2025 slip-ups behind. In this episode, we discuss Brittne's financial mistakes in 2025 to help you avoid similar pitfalls. From unused subscriptions, errors in negotiations, splitting dinner bills, overcommitting, to missing tax deadlines, the episode also touches on the importance of value-based spending, better accounting methods, setting boundaries, and the balancing act between work and personal life. Learn the significance of creating meaningful experiences over accumulating material goods. Tune in to learn from their experiences and gain actionable tips for your financial journey.

[00:06:27] Brittne’s Money Mistakes of 2025
[00:07:42] Unused Subscriptions
[00:16:05] Negotiation Mistakes
[00:20:20] Splitting the Bill Dilemma
[00:28:44] Finding a Balance in Commitments
[00:36:07] Tax Penalties and Better Accounting

🎉 This episode is sponsored by Bona Fide Finance – Trusted financial advisors offering flat-fee, comprehensive planning to help you build wealth and financial security. Book a consultation at bonafidefinance.com/wealthmindedmd or email [email protected] and tell them we sent you.

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!