Episode 118: Building a More Satisfying RetirementWhat does a successful retirement really look like?In this episode, Jonny explores why retirement satisfaction depends on more than just the size of your portfolio. Research shows that four factors play an important role: income, savings, health, and social connection.You’ll learn why a comprehensive retirement plan should go beyond investments and include thoughtful planning for healthcare, relationships, purpose, and the lifestyle you want to enjoy.In This EpisodeThe four key drivers of retirement satisfactionWhy health and social connection can be as important as financial securityHow to avoid sacrificing well-being solely to build a larger nest eggWhy many retirees report being more financially comfortable than they expectedThe ongoing role of Social Security, Medicare, and lower work-related expenses in retirementKey TakeawayA successful retirement is not just about having enough money to stop working. It is about having the financial confidence, health, relationships, and purpose to enjoy the life you have built.

Episode 117: Social Security Claiming Strategies and Tips for Married CouplesIn this episode of One for the Money, we take a close look at one of the most important retirement decisions you can make: when to claim Social Security. While the timing can have a meaningful impact on your lifetime retirement income, too many people still make this choice without a clear strategy. We break down the key claiming ages, the tradeoffs between claiming early or delaying, and why the right decision should be based on your goals, income sources, life expectancy, and overall retirement plan.We also explore research showing why delaying benefits can often create more long-term value than claiming early and investing the difference. In the Tips, Tricks, and Strategies section, we discuss how married couples should think about spousal benefits, survivor benefits, and how to coordinate claiming decisions to support long-term retirement income.Key topics covered:When to claim Social Security and why timing matters.How claiming at 62, full retirement age, or 70 changes your benefit.Why many retirees leave money on the table by claiming too early.Research on the value of delaying benefits.Social Security strategies married couples may want to consider.How to think about survivor benefits and spousal coordination.Why listen: If you want a clearer framework for deciding when to claim Social Security, this episode offers practical guidance, planning considerations, and a few strategies that can help you make a more informed choice.

Episode 116 – The Alphabet Soup of Employee Stock BenefitsWhy employee ownership can be a powerful wealth-building toolOverview of ESOPs, ESPPs, RSUs, and the NUA tax strategyHow ESOPs and ESPPs give you company stock through contributions or discounted purchasesHow RSUs work, when they’re taxed, and why they often lead to concentrated employer stockWhat NUA is and when it can reduce taxes on appreciated company stock in a 401(k)Key risks of single‑stock exposure and why diversification is crucialPractical RSU tip: when it can make sense to sell vested shares and reinvest or pay down debtHow to think about these benefits as part of an overall financial and tax planIf you’d like help reviewing your equity compensation and overall plan, schedule a free introductory meeting at betterplanningbetterlife.com.This material is for general information and educational purposes only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

In this episode of One for the Money, I revisit author Morgan Housel—best known for The Psychology of Money—and explore his newer, even more impactful book, The Art of Spending Money. I share why building wealth is only half the equation and why learning to spend that wealth intentionally, in line with your values and life experiences, is its own crucial skill. You’ll hear practical ideas for using money as a tool to create freedom, deeper relationships, and meaningful memories, rather than simply chasing a bigger account balance.Episode 115 – The Art of Spending Money (Morgan Housel)Follow-up to episode 13 on The Psychology of MoneyFocus: Morgan Housel’s new book The Art of Spending Money and how to use money to live better, not just build wealthKey ThemesMoney success is more about behavior than intelligenceBuilding wealth is one skill; spending it wisely is a separate skillMoney should be a tool for happiness and freedom, not a status scoreboardSpending and Personal ExperienceNo one-size-fits-all formula for spending; it must reflect your values and life story“Post-traumatic broke syndrome”: people who grew up with scarcity may struggle to spend even when they’re financially independentGood planning and projections help clients see what’s safe to spend, reducing fear of running outTime, Relationships, and HappinessLife moves in phases; time with family is finite and irreplaceableAt the end of life, what matters most are stories and relationships, not account balancesAs income rises, core joys often stay the same: family time, meaningful conversations, simple shared experiencesPractical Takeaways (Tips, Tricks, Strategies)Main drivers of happiness: strong relationships, health, meaningful work, rest, and purposeSpend intentionally on what truly matters; cut ruthlessly what doesn’tGuiding rule: “Spend extravagantly on the things you love—only if you are equally disciplined in cutting the things you don’t.”This material is for general information and educational purposes only and is not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual.

Debt, Deficits, and Your Financial FutureIn this episode of One for the Money, Jonny zooms out: yes, we’re living in the most prosperous era in human history—but America’s debt and spending habits are a growing reason for concern.In this episode:How Washington turned the U.S. into a “transfer society” and why interest on the debt now rivals defense spendingWhat trillion‑dollar deficits really mean (using a simple time analogy)Practical ways to protect yourself from future tax hikes: Roth strategies, HSAs, defined benefit plans, tax‑gain and tax‑loss harvestingWhy voter choices—and new technologies like AI—could still shift us toward a more abundant, fiscally responsible futureListen in to understand the stakes, then learn concrete steps you can take now to strengthen your own financial plan.

One for the Money — Episode 113The Case for Optimism (5th Annual)Each July, the One for the Money podcast makes the case for optimism — and this year's edition may be the most compelling yet. Despite an unsettling headlines landscape that includes the ongoing wars in Ukraine and Iran and persistent political dysfunction, the data tells a different and far more hopeful story. This episode is your annual reminder of just how remarkable a moment in history we are living through.In This EpisodeWhy 2026 — turbulence and all — is the best time in history to be aliveAmerica at 250: the Declaration of Independence and the outsized global contributions the U.S. has made in technology, medicine, economic growth, education, and democratic idealsWhy freedom, protected by checks and balances, produced the most prosperous society in human historyThe paradox of low happiness despite record prosperity — and what's really driving itClimate fear vs. climate data: what the numbers actually showGlobal progress by the numbers, courtesy of HumanProgress.orgBoomers vs. Millennials: what the data says about who actually had it harderAI anxiety in historical context — and why Chicken Little keeps getting it wrongWealth inequality: where we are, where we've been, and the rise of billionaire philanthropyA personal note on becoming an American citizenKey TakeawaysExtreme poverty has fallen from over 80% of the world two centuries ago to under 9% todayU.S. GDP per capita is now 40% higher than Western Europe and 60% higher than Japan — and growing three times faster since 2020Natural disaster deaths in 2024 (16,753) were well below the 20-year average of 65,566 — a 90% decline over the past centuryPolitical division is nothing new: from Aaron Burr to four presidential assassinations, America has always had turmoil — and always moved forwardMillennials now have a higher average net worth at comparable ages than Boomers didEvery major wave of technological disruption — steam, electricity, the internet — created more opportunity than it destroyedTips, Tricks & StrategiesSpend money on travel. As Mark Twain put it, "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness." Whether it's Yosemite, Crater Lake, the Grand Tetons, or a trip to Thailand or Costa Rica, the conversations and memories you make along the way are among the highest-return investments you can make. Travel doesn't just broaden your perspective — it deepens your gratitude.Remember — a better life is a result of better planning.

Episode 112: Family Matters & Money - For Better or For Worse Money can’t buy love or happiness—but it can absolutely impact both.In this episode of One for the Money Podcast, I share how money can either strengthen or damage the relationships that matter most in our lives. Research consistently shows that strong relationships are one of the greatest predictors of happiness, health, and longevity. The question becomes: are your financial habits helping your relationships or hurting them?In this episode, I explore practical ways to use money intentionally to create stronger family connections, healthier communication, and lasting memories.I also share:Why money is one of the leading causes of conflict in families and marriagesLessons from the Harvard Study of Adult DevelopmentHow financial education can become a generational giftWhy discussing family goals and financial plans mattersThe importance of spending money on experiences instead of just possessionsThe inspiring story of Joy Ryan and Brad Ryan visiting all 63 U.S. National Parks togetherTips, Tricks & Strategies SegmentIn this week’s practical segment, I share how to use money to benefit your descendants and preserve family relationships across generations, including:The surprising statistic about how quickly many inheritances are spentThe concept of “warm giving” — giving while you are aliveWhy communication and estate conversations matterHow experiences can become one of the greatest legacies you leave behindKey TakeawayThere may be only one thing that compounds better than money: memories.Better planning leads to a better life—and that includes planning for the people you love most.Thank you for listening to One for the Money Podcast!

In this episode, I break down one of the newest and most talked-about financial policies introduced in 2025: Trump Accounts. Created as part of the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” these tax-advantaged investment accounts are designed to give American children a financial head start from birth.I cover how these accounts work, who qualifies, the role of government and private funding, and whether they make sense for your family. We also compare Trump Accounts to other popular savings vehicles like 529 plans and custodial accounts (UTMA/UGMA), so you can make an informed decision.If you’re a parent—or planning to be—this is an important conversation about building generational wealth and setting your kids up for long-term financial success.What You’ll LearnWhat Trump Accounts are and how they workWho qualifies for the $1,000 government seed contributionHow the $5,000 annual contribution limit worksThe role of private philanthropy (including the $250 bonus opportunities)Key benefits and drawbacks of these accountsHow Trump Accounts compare to 529 plans and custodial accountsWhen these accounts make sense—and when they don’tWhy starting early matters more than the account typePros of Trump Accounts$1,000 federal seed contribution (for eligible birth years)Additional $250 potential philanthropic contributionsTax-deferred growthFlexible use of funds at age 18Employer contribution opportunitiesSimple, index-based investment approachCons of Trump AccountsNo tax deduction on contributionsWithdrawals taxed as ordinary incomeLimited investment optionsالطفل gains full control at age 18Lower flexibility compared to some alternativesNew program with evolving rules and uncertaintiesTrump Accounts vs. Other Options529 PlansBest for education-specific savingsTax-free growth and withdrawals (if used for qualified expenses)Less flexibility for non-education useCustodial Accounts (UTMA/UGMA)Greater flexibility in how funds are usedPotential tax advantages through capital gains treatmentNo contribution limitsAssets count toward financial aid calculationsWhen Trump Accounts Make SenseYou have a child born between 2025–2028 (to capture the $1,000 seed money)Your child qualifies for additional philanthropic contributionsYour employer offers contributions to the accountWhen to Consider AlternativesYou’re primarily saving for education (consider a 529 plan)You want more tax-efficient withdrawalsYou prefer greater flexibility and control over investmentsImportant Dates & TimelineAccount activation begins: Before July 4, 2026Initial $1,000 deposit: No earlier than July 4, 2026Contributions allowed starting: July 4, 2026Final TakeawayTrump Accounts are an interesting new tool designed to jumpstart investing from birth—but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. The most important factor isn’t the account type—it’s getting started early, staying consistent, and having a plan.SubscribeIf you found this episode helpful, be sure to subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a review. And as always, better planning leads to a better life.

Episode 110: The Hidden Power of 529 Plans (and How to Use Them Like a Pro)Welcome back to the One for the Money podcast!In this episode, we dive into one of the most powerful—and often misunderstood—tools for college planning: 529 plans. With graduation season in full swing, this topic hits especially close to home as families prepare for the next big (and expensive) chapter.🎓 What’s Inside This EpisodeA Personal MilestoneGraduation season is here, and in the West household, it’s a big one. From elementary school to high school, the years may feel long—but they fly by. With one son heading to college, this episode reflects both the emotional and financial realities of preparing for higher education.💡 529 Plans: More Than Meets the EyeAt their core, 529 plans are tax-advantaged investment accounts designed for education expenses. But beneath the surface, they offer far more flexibility and strategic value than many people realize.Here’s why they stand out:Tax Advantages: Contributions grow tax-deferred, and withdrawals are tax-free when used for qualified education expenses.Flexible Beneficiaries: You can change the beneficiary to another family member—or even yourself.Future Planning Power: Start a 529 today and transfer it later to future children or grandchildren.No Required Distributions: Funds can continue growing for years—even generations.Superfunding Opportunities: Front-load up to five years of gifts in one contribution for powerful estate planning.🔄 New Rules: 529 to Roth IRA Transfers (SECURE 2.0)Recent legislation introduced a game-changing strategy: rolling unused 529 funds into a Roth IRA for the beneficiary.Key rules to know:The Roth IRA must belong to the 529 beneficiaryThe 529 must be at least 15 years oldContributions made within the last 5 years (and earnings) are excludedAnnual rollovers are limited to IRA contribution limits (no double-dipping)Lifetime rollover cap: $35,000 per beneficiaryWhy this matters:This creates an opportunity to “jump-start” a child’s retirement savings—potentially turning unused college funds into long-term, tax-free growth.🚀 Strategy Spotlight: Start Early, Think Long-TermBy funding a 529 early in a child’s life and gradually rolling funds into a Roth IRA (once eligible), families can harness decades of compounding. With consistency and time, even modest amounts can grow into significant retirement assets.🛠️ Tips, Tricks & Strategies: Investing Inside a 529Don’t overlook how you invest within the account:Early Years: Consider growth-oriented or stock-heavy portfolios to maximize long-term returns5 Years from College: Gradually shift to more conservative investmentsPreserve What You’ve Built: As college approaches, focus less on growth and more on preserving fundsReal-life approach:As college nears for the host’s oldest son, the first few years of expenses have been moved into conservative investments—reducing the risk of a market downturn right when the money is needed.🎯 Key Takeaway529 plans aren’t just college savings tools—they’re flexible, strategic, and surprisingly powerful vehicles for both education and long-term financial planning.Thanks for listening!If you found this episode helpful, be sure to share it with someone navigating college planning. And remember:A better life is the result of better planning—and that absolutely includes planning for education.See you next time!ResourcesCongress.gov – SECURE 2.0 Act (529-to-Roth IRA Provision)Fidelity Investments – 529-to-Roth IRA Transfer Rules ExplainedFINRA – 529 Plan Investment StrategiesInternal Revenue Service – 529 Plans (Qualified Tuition Programs)Saving for College – Complete Guide to 529 PlansSaving for College – 5-Year Gift Tax Averaging (Superfunding)Schwab – Understanding 529 to Roth IRA RolloversU.S. Securities and Exchange Commission – Introduction to 529 PlansPrior to investing in a 529 Plan investors should consider whether the investor's or designated beneficiary's home state offers any state tax or other state benefits such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors that are only available for investments in such state's qualified tuition program. Withdrawals used for qualified expenses are federally tax free. Tax treatment at the state level may vary. Please consult with your tax advisor before investing. (19-LPL)The content in this material is for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, LPL Financial makes no representation as to its completeness or accuracy.

Episode SummaryWith Mother’s Day right around the corner, this episode highlights an important—and often overlooked—reality in financial planning: too many women are still taking a back seat when it comes to managing their financial future.Drawing from real client experiences, this episode explores why financial planning works best when both partners are actively involved, and why it’s especially critical for women to engage in the process.From differences in financial goals and investment behavior to the long-term impact of widowhood and divorce, this conversation makes a compelling case for shared financial decision-making—and the risks of sitting on the sidelines.What You’ll LearnWhy financial planning is more effective when both partners participateCommon differences in how men and women approach investingHow misaligned goals (even in something like vacations) reflect deeper planning gapsThe financial realities women often face after divorce or widowhoodWhy women tend to outperform men as investorsThe risks of deferring financial decisions to a spouseKey TakeawaysFinancial planning is not a “set it and forget it” process—especially for couplesWomen are statistically more likely to experience the long-term outcomes of financial decisionsBeing uninvolved in financial planning can lead to costly consequencesWomen often bring discipline, patience, and better long-term behavior to investingShared planning leads to better alignment, better decisions, and better outcomesTips, Tricks & StrategiesWant to get more involved in your financial life? Start here:Attend financial meetingsBe present in conversations with your financial advisor. If you don’t have one, consider working with a professional.Build your financial knowledgeListen to podcasts, watch videos, or read about personal finance. The basics are more approachable than you think.Run a “what if” scenarioIf you had to take over all financial responsibilities tomorrow, would you be ready? Know your accounts, contacts, and plan.Notable Stats from the EpisodeWomen often experience a larger drop in income after divorce than menWomen tend to live longer, making long-term planning even more criticalA significant percentage of women defer financial decisions to their spouseStudies show women often outperform men in investing due to more disciplined behaviorFinal ThoughtA better life is the result of better planning—and better planning requires participation. If you’re not at the table, it’s time to pull up a chair.ReferencesDo women live longer than men in the US? | USAFactsThe Economic Consequences of Gray Divorce for Women and MenWomen Are Strong Savers. So, Why Do Their Balances Often Lag Behind?Women Put Financial Security at Risk by Deferring Long-term Financial Decisions to Spouses