Jesse opens the show by sharing a personal anecdote about a former teacher's challenging investment choices, which were burdened with high fees from their financial advisor. He emphasizes the predatory nature of the financial advice teachers receive, encouraging teachers to seek better investment options from reputable firms like Vanguard and Fidelity. Finally, Jesse underscores the importance of being informed against the systemic issues in the retirement planning landscape for educators.

Dan Otter joins for the second half of the show. Dan is the co-founder of 403(b)Wise, which aims to make information about the 403(b) readily available to educators. Together, Dan and Jesse delve into the complexities and challenges of 403(b) retirement plans for public school teachers. They address the absence of Federal fiduciary protections, the prevalence of predatory financial options, and the stark differences between high-cost and low-cost providers. This episode features valuable resources, including Otter's book Teach and Retire Rich and the 403(b)wise website, offering practical advice on avoiding high fees and poor investment choices. 

Whether or not you are a teacher, you’ll find this episode full of valuable education. And, be sure to share this with friends and family members who are teachers. Key Takeaways: • Be on the lookout for financial predators who’ll lure you into high fee accounts. • The 403(b) is a great tool for your retirement. • There’s a lack of federal fiduciary protections which allows for school teachers to be taken advantage of. • How 403(b)wise is helping educate teachers on their best financial options. • What to do if you’ve already invested your money in a high fee account. • How sales agents are incentivized to harm teachers. Key Timestamps: (02:17) Jesse’s Monologue: Teachers Are Getting Taken Advantage Of (03:51) Advice for Teachers (09:24) Introducing Dan Otter and 403(b)wise (11:51) The Problem with 403(b) Vendors (18:03) Annuities in 403(b) Plans (24:12) Wise Consumer Tips for Financial Products (25:28) Understanding Fixed Income and Annuities for Teachers (27:46) The Ethical Dilemma of Financial Advisors (31:48) Advocacy and Resources for Teachers (37:11) Navigating 403b and 457(b) Plans (42:47) Conclusion and Final Thoughts Key Topics Discussed: The Best Interest, Jesse Cramer, Rochester New York, financial planner, financial advisor, wealth management, retirement planning, tax planning, personal finance, teachers, teacher finances, 403(b), 403b, 457(b), 403(b)wise Mentions:Website: https://403bwise.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-otter-ph-d-0380a61/ Mentions: Teach and Retire Rich:  https://amzn.to/4dQloRi Ten Rules for Retirement Investing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ewjha6cu1M https://www.nytimes.com/2016/10/23/your-money/403-b-retirement-plans-fees-teachers.html https://www.nytimes.com/2018/03/16/your-money/403b-annuities.html More of The Best Interest: Check out the Best Interest Blog at bestinterest.blog Contact me at [email protected]

The Best Interest Podcast is a personal podcast meant for educational and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.