Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. With the right preparation and a solid plan, the process becomes much more manageable. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know before taking the leap into homeownership. We cover the importance of getting pre-approved, gathering key documents, and interviewing lenders. We also explore different mortgage options such as FHA, conventional, and physician loans. Plus, we walk you through choosing the right real estate agent, understanding closing costs, navigating today’s interest rate landscape, and avoiding common pitfalls. Whether you’re buying your first home or your next one, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you make confident, informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls.

[00:04:30] Understanding Property Taxes and the Home Buying Process
[00:10:00] How to Gather the Necessary Documents for a Mortgage
[00:20:04] Pre-Approval Process and How to Choose the Right Lender
[00:24:29] Breakdown of Closing Costs, Attorney Fees, and Underwriting Fees
[00:29:18] Exploring Mortgage Types, Interest Rates, and Loan Terms
[00:40:52] How to Find the Right Real Estate Agent and Understand Their Fees
[00:46:28] Steps to Secure a Home Loan and Lock in an Interest Rate

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🎉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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Balancing the demands of medicine and parenthood is a challenge many face, but Drs. Nii and Renée Darko have found a way to make it work with intention and strategy. In Part 2 of our conversation, the couple shares how they transitioned to locum tenens to gain more control over their schedules and family life.  They open up about how having children reshaped their financial priorities, how they’re building multiple streams of income through real estate, and the importance of partnership and financial unity in marriage. Hear about their journey from financial missteps to stability, and how they’re instilling financial literacy in their children. From navigating marriage and money to designing a life aligned with their values, this candid conversation is full of practical insights for physicians seeking both professional fulfillment and lasting wealth.

[00:01:50] Balancing Medical Career and Family Life Effectively
[00:04:16] Smart Financial Planning for Physicians and Family Dynamics
[00:07:52] Wealthy Insights with Drs. Nii and Renée Darko — PART 2
[00:08:38] Teaching Kids Financial Literacy: Tips for Doctors and Parents
[00:14:13] How Career Choices Impact Family Life and Finances
[00:20:58] Locum Tenens Opportunities and Side Income Ideas for Doctors
[00:24:44] Setting Future Financial Goals and Real Estate Investment Strategies

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!

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Wishing you a fantastic week ahead and happy wealth building!

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.

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!

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

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🎉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)?

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🎉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!