In this episode Mark delves into the intricacies of ACA subsidies and the significant changes expected in 2026, including the return of the subsidy cliff and increases in Expected Premium Contribution levels based on household Federal Poverty Level guidelines.

He also shares insights from the new book 'Tax Planning To and Through Early Retirement' by Cody Garrett, CFP and Sean Mullaney, CPA which challenges his current approach to Roth IRA conversions.

Mark also discusses his personal financial planning strategy for 2026 while offering listeners insight on how to navigate the evolving healthcare landscape.

The episode concludes with a light-hearted note about Halloween preparations.

Episode Links:

Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel

Beyond the Basics ACA Subsidy Reference Chart - Coverage Year 2025

Beyond the Basics ACA Subsidy Reference Chart - Coverage Year 2026

Tax Planning To and Through Early Retirement by Cody Garrett, CFP and Sean Mullaney, CPA

Timestamps:

• 00:22 Life Update: Moving and Teaching
• 00:58 Roth IRA Conversions and ACA Subsidies
• 04:53 Upcoming Changes in ACA Subsidies
• 08:01 Federal Poverty Guidelines and Expected Premium Contributions Explained
• 18:34 Planning for 2026 and Beyond
• 25:58 Halloween Fun and Show Wrap-Up

_______________

As an Amazon Associate this show earns income from qualifying purchases. Affiliate links do not increase your costs, and we will only link to products or services that we are familiar with and that we feel may deliver value to you. The modest income received from affiliate links helps support the cost of running and managing this show.

In this episode Mark shares his personal approach to fourth quarter income and tax planning. He explains the benefit of using a one-page financial plan and discusses strategies for Roth IRA conversions, tax planning, handling required minimum distributions (RMDs), and navigating the Affordable Care Act's (ACA) advanced premium tax credits.

Mark provides detailed insights into social security benefits for survivors, including his own experience claiming benefits at age 60. He also touches on maintaining liquidity, setting up automatic monthly 'paychecks' from investment accounts, and the implications of income on Medicare insurance premiums.

This comprehensive episode is a great listen for anyone looking to optimize their financial situation as we head toward year’s end.

Episode Links:

Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel

DinkyTown Tax Calculator

Timestamps:

• 00:25 Personal Updates and Financial Planning
• 02:04 Understanding Social Security Survivor Benefits
• 08:44 Q4 Financial Review and Planning
• 14:20 Tax Strategies and Roth Conversions
• 34:56 Managing Income and Expenses

In this heartfelt episode, Mark dedicates this show to his late niece Emily, sharing valuable lessons from her life and how they align with the principles of Financial Independence (FI). Mark recounts Emily's prudent financial decisions, like investing early, living frugally, and finding joy in repurposing items.

He highlights her strategic choices in education, transportation, and home buying—all quintessential FI practices. Emily’s approach to financial independence emphasized enjoying life in the present while preparing for the future, providing a poignant example that motivates listeners to balance saving with life experiences.

This episode also underscores the importance of shared experiences with loved ones, echoing the principles from the book 'Die With Zero.' Tune in for a touching tribute to Emily and insightful takeaways on living a fulfilling life while pursuing financial freedom.

Timestamps:

• 00:33 A Tribute to Emily
• 01:14 The Power of Compounding Investments
• 05:08 Emily's Financial Independence Journey
• 08:39 Life Lessons and Financial Wisdom
• 16:19 Living a Fulfilling Life
• 19:13 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this live recorded episode Mark and co-host Kevin Sebesta welcome a variety of guests from CampFI Rocky Mountain Week 3 in Colorado Springs.

The show begins with an engaging conversation with Scott, a physician assistant, and his daughter Zoe, who share their journey towards Financial Independence (FI) and the life experiences that shaped their financial decisions.

The episode also features Lauren, a former federal employee who discusses her career transition and personal growth journey. Key themes include the value of early financial education, the significance of sabbaticals, and the power of community in achieving financial goals. Lauren emphasizes living intentionally, exploring new opportunities, and overcoming fears, all while navigating the path to financial freedom.

Episode Links:

Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel

CampFI

Timestamps:

• 00:29 Live from CampFI: Meet the Hosts
• 01:46 Scott's Journey to Financial Independence
• 09:40 Zoe's Perspective on Financial Education
• 16:24 Zoe's Gap Year Adventure
• 20:09 Reflections and Future Plans
• 22:36 Introducing Lauren: A Journey to Financial Independence
• 23:04 Lauren's Background and Early Financial Challenges
• 24:10 Discovering the FI/RE Movement and Paying Off Student Loans
• 26:14 Finding Community and Support at CampFI
• 27:03 The Impact of a Case Study and Seeking Permission
• 30:05 Major Life Changes and Career Decisions
• 34:08 Embracing New Opportunities and Personal Growth
• 38:50 Overcoming Fear and Trying New Things
• 44:37 Long-Term Vision and Future Plans

In this episode Mark is joined by tax expert Sean Mullaney, CPA live from CampFI in Colorado Springs. They dive into the recent changes brought by the new tax legislation, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), signed into law on July 4th.

Key topics include permanent tax rates, increased standard deductions, higher child tax credit, new personal exemptions for seniors, potential future tax adjustments, and expanded eligibility for HSA contributions under ACA plans.

They also discuss strategic tax planning for early retirees and Sean’s upcoming book on tax planning co-authored with Cody Garrett, CFP®.

Episode Links:

Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel

FI Tax Guy blog

Sean Mullaney YouTube channel

U.S. Code § 36B - Refundable credit for coverage under a qualified health plan

Tax Planning To and Through Early Retirement by Cody Garrett, CFP® and Sean Mullaney, CPA

Timestamps:

• 00:40 Live from CampFI: Special Guest Sean Mullaney
• 01:23 Overview of the New Tax Bill
• 01:55 Changes in Tax Rates and Standard Deductions
• 04:39 Child Tax Credit and Personal Exemptions
• 05:14 New Deductions for Retirees and Workers
• 11:56 State and Local Tax Deductions
• 14:23 Charitable Contributions and Estate Tax
• 21:13 Affordable Care Act Changes
• 29:46 Upcoming Book: Tax Planning To and Through Early Retirement

_______________

This show is for education and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered investment, tax, or legal advice. Please consult the appropriate advisor or advisors before implementing anything you hear on this show or any other show for that matter.

Mark, his guests, and the Mark’s Money Mind show do not endorse Sean Mullaney, Mullaney Financial & Tax, Inc. and their services.

In this episode of the Mark's Money Mind show, host Mark Trautman, along with co-host Kevin Sebesta, speak live from CampFI Rocky Mountain about various aspects of the Financial Independence / Retire Early (FIRE) journey.

They welcome guests from different stages of the FI process, including Alison, who is in the discovery stage, and Camille and Daryl, who are in the mindful middle of their journey. Additionally, Darren and Jolene, who have graduated past the FI finish line, discuss how they manage their finances post-retirement, specifically focusing on strategies like the 72T distribution.

The episode underscores the importance of community support, planning, and adaptability in achieving financial independence and designing a fulfilling post-retirement life.

Episode Links:

Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel

CampFI

The Mindful Middle | Episode 018

How to Money podcast

ChooseFI podcast

The Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America’s Wealthy By Thomas J. Stanley & William D. Danko

The House Hacking Strategy: How to Use Your Home to Achieve Financial Freedom By Craig Curelop

Timestamps:

• 00:00 Welcome to Mark's Money Mind Show
• 00:50 Introducing Co-Host Kevin Sebesta
• 02:15 Guest Spotlight: Alison's FI/RE Journey
• 02:29 Discovering Financial Independence
• 08:48 Reselling as a Side Hustle
• 11:44 The Mindful Middle: Camille and Daryl's Story
• 13:18 Navigating the FI Journey
• 15:33 House Hacking and Financial Strategies
• 24:50 Balancing Saving and Enjoying Life
• 31:20 Team Effort in Financial Planning
• 33:12 First Impressions of the Event
• 36:05 The Graduates: Darren and Jolene
• 37:17 Accessing Retirement Funds Early
• 42:53 Roth Conversion Ladder Strategy
• 44:15 72(t) Rule Explained
• 50:31 Planning and Adjusting for Early Retirement
• 58:50 Final Thoughts

_______________

As an Amazon Associate this show earns income from qualifying purchases. Affiliate links do not increase your costs, and we will only link to products or services that we are familiar with and that we feel may deliver value to you. The modest income received from affiliate links helps support the cost of running and managing this show.

In this episode Mark shares his comprehensive approach to a semi-annual financial review. Covering essential personal finance practices, Mark outlines steps for calculating net worth, tracking spending, evaluating annual achievements against the one-page financial plan, and preparing for future financial goals.

Mark provides insights on Roth conversions, social security benefits, and his personal experiences with major expenses. Additionally, he discusses the importance of regular updates to estate planning documents and beneficiary designations.

This episode is a deep dive into detailed financial oversight practices aimed at maintaining and enhancing financial freedom.

Episode Links:

Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel

The Financial Starting Line – Net Worth, 529 to Roth IRA and Q&A | Episode 003

New Year Financial Planning | Episode 039

Timestamps:

• 00:52 Semi-Annual Financial Review: Net Worth Calculation
• 08:38 Reviewing Your Spending
• 16:32 The Anti-Budget Approach
• 18:24 One Page Financial Plan: Mid-Year Check-In
• 23:15 Roth Conversions and Tax Strategies
• 29:13 Social Security Survivor Benefits
• 41:22 Estate Planning and Beneficiary Designations
• 43:00 Wrapping Up and Upcoming Events

In this episode Mark discusses significant updates to the Capital One Venture X and Chase Sapphire Reserve credit cards, affecting lounge access, benefits and annual fees.

He elaborates on how these changes will impact frequent travelers, comparing the benefits and drawbacks of both cards, and considers whether to keep or cancel these cards in light of the updates.

He also touches upon potential changes coming to the American Express Platinum card and discusses how he may proceed in navigating these changes.

If you would like your question answered on the show, please send an email to Mark@MarksMoneyMind.com and put “podcast question” in the subject line.

Episode Links:

Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel

Capital One Set to Change Lounge Access Policies

Introducing the New Couponified Chase Sapphire Reserve

Timestamps:

• 00:52 Changes in Credit Card Rewards: Capital One Venture X
• 05:01 Navigating the Capital One Venture X Changes
• 11:20 Chase Sapphire Reserve: New Updates and Implications
• 15:26 Evaluating the Chase Sapphire Reserve Benefits
• 23:21 American Express Platinum: Current and Future Considerations
• 40:42 Final Thoughts and Recommendations