This week on The Capitalist Investor, Derek Gabrielsen and Dave Abate break down why even the most disciplined do-it-yourself investors are realizing that professional financial guidance isn’t a weakness—it’s wisdom.

They explore the psychological and practical pitfalls of managing money alone, from behavioral biases to tax inefficiencies. Derek and Dave discuss how proper retirement income planning, tax strategy, and risk diversification can extend the life of your portfolio by up to 20%.

Plus, they share stories from real-world client experiences—highlighting how “doing it yourself” can sometimes mean missing opportunities for smarter, long-term gains.

Whether you’re nearing retirement or already there, this episode will help you rethink what true financial independence really means.

#TheCapitalistInvestor #RetirementPlanning #WealthManagement #FinancialAdvice #DIYInvesting #TaxStrategy #FinancialPlanning #BehavioralFinance

For decades, retirement has been marketed as the finish line—a time to coast and relax. But what if that’s the wrong way to think about it? In this episode, Tony and Derek challenge the old idea of “retirement” and unpack how today’s retirees can turn uncertainty into opportunity.

They discuss the fears many people face—like outliving your money, losing purpose, or feeling unsure what’s next—and share how smart financial planning can replace anxiety with confidence. From dynamic planning strategies that adapt to market volatility, to redefining wealth as time, freedom, and experience, this conversation is packed with real-world insights from advisors who see it every day.

Whether you’re approaching retirement or already there, you’ll learn how to build a plan that works for your lifestyle—and your peace of mind.

YouTube and Google are full of self-proclaimed “financial experts” predicting the next market crash — but should you really listen to them?

In this episode, Tony Zabiegala and Derek Gabrielsen from Strategic Wealth Partners break down the YouTube investing trap and explain why fear, FOMO, and flashy predictions can lead investors astray.

They cover:

• Why fear-driven content gets more clicks than facts
• How COVID fueled the rise of fake online “experts”
• The red flags to look for when watching YouTube financial content
• How to separate education from entertainment
• Why “get rich slow” still beats “get rich quick” every time

From AI-generated content to vague crash predictions, Tony and Derek explain how to stay grounded, focus on your real goals, and avoid falling for bad financial advice online.

🎙️ The Capitalist Investor delivers candid conversations about money, markets, and mindset — cutting through the noise to help you think like a real investor.

Big changes are coming to retirement planning—and they may hit you sooner than you think. In this week’s episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek break down new rules that eliminate a key 401(k) tax break for employees over age 50 making more than $150,000

Congress is now forcing these catch-up contributions into Roth accounts, removing the upfront tax deduction many workers rely on. While this may sound like bad news, Tony and Derek explain why having a Roth “bucket” might actually strengthen your long-term tax strategy.

You’ll learn:

• Why losing this deduction isn’t as catastrophic as it sounds
• How building three “buckets” (cash, tax-deferred, and tax-free) gives you flexibility in retirement
• What the new rules mean for Medicare surcharges and health care costs
• Why the government is really making this change—and how it could affect your future

They also share frustrations with the complexity of the Secure Act 2.0, including catch-up age rules, savers’ matches, and automatic enrollment requirements. Is it smart policy—or just another mess for workers and employers?

👉 If you’re over 50 and planning for retirement, this episode is a must-listen.

With all the market noise and new policy changes in 2025, many experts are calling this the smartest year to retire. In this week’s episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek break down why this moment could represent the perfect storm for retirement planning.

From locking in market gains after a massive run-up, to taking advantage of favorable tax brackets, to new rules for contributions and deductions—this episode uncovers the key opportunities retirees shouldn’t overlook. The guys also discuss healthcare and Medicare alignment, Social Security timing, and how lifestyle trends are reshaping what “retirement” looks like.

Whether you’re one year away or still in the planning phase, this conversation will help you think strategically about your retirement timing.

Stay tuned until the end for a quick bonus chat on the Ryder Cup and why the U.S. vs. Europe matchup is about more than just golf.

👉 Questions or topic suggestions? Reach out to the show—we love hearing from listeners who want to take control of their financial future.

Are you underspending in retirement? Many retirees save diligently for decades but struggle to flip the switch from saving to spending. In this episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony and Derek reveal why so many people spend less than they could — and how to enjoy retirement without fear of running out of money.

We’ll cover:

• Why retirees underspend even with strong financial plans
• How a Monte Carlo simulation shows what you can safely spend
• The difference between saving for legacy vs. enjoying life today
• Why the first 10 years of retirement are the most important
• Practical financial planning strategies to spend confidently while protecting your future

If you’ve ever wondered “How much can I safely spend in retirement?” or worried about outliving your savings, this episode will give you clarity and confidence. You worked hard for your wealth — now it’s time to enjoy it.

Remember the supply chain mess of 2020 or the sudden market drop of 2022? Those so-called “black swan” events hit hard and fast — and they’re not as rare as you think. In this week’s Capitalist Investor, the team dives into how unpredictable market shocks can devastate unprepared portfolios, why retirees are especially vulnerable, and the strategies you can use to safeguard your wealth. Don’t miss this candid conversation on protecting your retirement from the unexpected.

#Investing #Retirement #Wealth #Markets #BlackSwans #Economy #FinancePodcast #FinancialPlanning

Dividend stocks have long been considered a safe haven for investors seeking steady income. But in today’s market—where interest rates are rising and economic conditions are shifting—are dividend stocks really the reliable play they used to be? Or are they luring investors into a trap with unsustainable yields and hidden risks?

In this week’s episode of The Capitalist Investor, Tony Zabiegala and Derek Gabrielsen break down the reality of dividend investing. They explore the history of dividends, the impact of inflation and interest rates, how to evaluate companies with strong vs. weak dividend policies, and what role dividends should play in a balanced portfolio.

Whether you’re chasing income, planning for retirement, or simply trying to protect your capital, this discussion will help you separate facts from myths and build a strategy that actually works.

📩 Questions or want help building a strategy? Email us at info@swpconnect.com
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