• Ep.52- Planning for Tomorrow: Understanding Social Security Today
    Apr 29 2024

    In this episode of the Wealthy Homes Podcast, we're diving deep into a topic that might not always be top of mind for our age group: Social Security. Join me as we explore the origins, evolution, and future of this vital component of retirement planning.

    Social Security isn't just a safety net; it's a cornerstone of retirement income for many, constituting up to a third of retirees' financial support. But how did it all start? We journey back to the 17th century, when the concept of providing for the needy began with the "poor laws." Over time, societal changes led to the development of pension programs, including the Civil War pension and early company pensions, laying the groundwork for FDR's game-changing Social Security Act of 1935.

    Fast forward to today, and Social Security faces challenges. With demographic shifts and economic strains, the program's sustainability is in question. We explore potential solutions, from adjusting taxation to raising the retirement age. But what does this mean for you?

    Understanding Social Security's intricacies is crucial for maximizing benefits. We break down how your earnings history and retirement age impact your benefits, from calculating your Primary Insurance Amount to deciding when to claim benefits. And let's not forget about spousal and survivor benefits, which add layers of complexity to the decision-making process.

    Timing is everything when it comes to Social Security. Should you claim early at 62, wait until full retirement age, or delay until 70 for maximum benefits? We crunch the numbers and discuss factors like life expectancy and income needs to help you make informed decisions.

    But why should you care about Social Security now, even if retirement seems far off? The program's future affects everyone, from future retirees to current beneficiaries. By staying informed and advocating for responsible policies, we can ensure Social Security remains a reliable pillar of retirement planning for generations to come.

    Have questions or want to dive deeper into your financial plan? Reach out to me, Connor, at cbauserman@hirep.net, and let's secure your wealthy future together.

    Submit a question for Connor Here!

    Check out Connor in other places-> https://linktr.ee/connor_bauserman

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    32 mins
  • Ep.51- Q&A with James Gilbert
    Apr 8 2024

    Welcome back to another episode of the Wealthy Homes Podcast! I'm your host, Conor Bauserman, joined by James Gilbert, another financial advisor here at PFG. Today, we're diving into some anonymous questions submitted by our listeners.

    First up, we discussed a couple considering having one parent stay at home with their kids. With a solid financial foundation, including no debt except for a manageable truck payment, we encouraged them to go for it, emphasizing the priceless value of spending time with young children.

    Next, we shared our thoughts on the current state of the real estate market and the dilemma of buying below the 20% down payment threshold. We advised not to obsess over timing but rather to focus on finding a home that fits your needs and financial capabilities.

    Moving on, we addressed a listener's question about how much to contribute to their 401k after a pay raise. We recommended aiming for around 10-15% of income, emphasizing the importance of long-term financial planning and aggressive investment strategies for growth.

    Then, we tackled the issue of handling student loan debt, emphasizing the urgency of paying it off as quickly as possible. We discussed strategies like the snowball and avalanche methods to efficiently tackle multiple loans with varying interest rates.

    Finally, we delved into the topic of managing finances as a married couple, stressing the importance of combining finances to work towards shared goals. We suggested regular financial meetings and open communication to ensure alignment and accountability.

    It was a great discussion covering a range of important financial topics. Remember, if you have questions of your own, feel free to submit them anonymously through our link tree on Facebook or LinkedIn, or here. Thanks for tuning in, and we'll catch you in the next episode!

    The advice given is not personalized financial advice but rather general guidance based on the information provided. This episode is for informational and educational purposes only. Securities & Advisory Services offered through Harbour Investments, Inc. Member SIPC.

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    24 mins
  • Ep.50- What It Means To Be Wealthy
    Mar 18 2024

    In this episode, Connor, your friendly host at the Wealthy HOMES Podcast, embarks on a captivating exploration of what it truly means to be wealthy. Beyond the conventional notion of financial riches, Connor reveals the five foundational pillars of genuine wealth: Money, Time, Relationships/Love, Physical Health, and Spiritual Health.

    Highlights:

    1. Money Matters: Connor underscores the significance of financial independence and savvy money management. He shares invaluable insights into investment strategies tailored for long-term wealth accumulation, along with practical tips for breaking free from debt and cultivating sustainable financial habits.

    2. Mastering Time: Delving into the art of time management, Connor presents effective techniques for striking a harmonious balance between work, family commitments, and personal aspirations. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing activities that foster joy and fulfillment, while also harnessing time as a catalyst for personal and professional growth.

    3. Nurturing Relationships: Connor sheds light on the profound impact of nurturing meaningful connections with family, friends, and loved ones. He discusses the art of fostering emotional bonds and building a supportive network, all while navigating the delicate dance of maintaining work-life equilibrium.

    4. Embracing Physical Wellness: Recognizing the indispensable role of physical health in the pursuit of holistic wealth, Connor shares practical strategies for embracing a lifestyle centered around vitality and longevity. From integrating fitness regimes into daily routines to adopting wholesome dietary practices, Connor offers a holistic approach to nurturing physical well-being.

    5. Cultivating Spiritual Harmony: Lastly, Connor explores the spiritual dimension of wealth, delving into practices that foster mindfulness, gratitude, and inner peace. By aligning values with actions and embarking on a journey of self-discovery, listeners are encouraged to unlock a sense of purpose and fulfillment that transcends material possessions.

    Conclusion:

    As Connor bids farewell to listeners, he leaves them with a poignant reminder that true wealth extends far beyond the confines of monetary abundance. By embracing the holistic framework of Money, Time, Relationships/Love, Physical Health, and Spiritual Health, individuals can embark on a transformative journey towards unlocking the full spectrum of human flourishing.

    Stay tuned for more enriching discussions and empowering insights on financial literacy and holistic wealth-building in future episodes of the Wealthy HOMES Podcast. After all, true wealth begins with you!

    Link to submit your Questions!

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    25 mins
  • Ep.49- Circle Talk 2.0
    Feb 27 2024

    Welcome back to another insightful episode of the Wealthy Homes Podcast! I'm Connor Bauserman, your friendly neighborhood financial advisor from Preferred Financial Group, and today, we're revisiting one of our foundational discussions: the Circle Talk 2.0.

    Now, if there's one episode, I'd recommend to anyone seeking financial wisdom, it's this one. As we approach our 50th episode milestone, I'm thrilled to reflect on how far we've come since our humble beginnings.

    The Circle Talk is all about laying the groundwork for your financial journey, and it all starts with three crucial pillars: banking/savings, investments, and insurance.

    First up, let's talk about banking and savings. Picture three circles on a whiteboard, each representing a pillar of money management. The first circle is all about your emergency fund. We're talking three to six months of expenses tucked away for a rainy day. Think of it as your financial safety net for life's unexpected curveballs—like that inevitable car repair or surprise medical bill.

    Next, we tackle big-ticket purchases and planned expenses. Whether it's a new car, a down payment on a home, or that dream vacation, it's essential to stash cash for these milestones. By keeping these funds separate from your investments, you avoid market volatility and ensure your goals stay on track.

    Now, onto the less glamorous—but equally vital—pillar: insurance. We start with property and casualty insurance, covering everything from your home to your wheels. Then, there's life insurance—a tough but necessary conversation. It's about protecting your loved ones and securing their future, no matter what life throws your way.

    When it comes to life insurance, I'm a firm believer in term policies. They offer reliable coverage at a fraction of the cost, giving you peace of mind without breaking the bank. And remember, your coverage needs will evolve over time, so it's essential to reassess regularly.

    But what about buying insurance through your employer? While it may seem convenient, it's not always the best long-term solution. Employer plans come with limitations and can vanish with a job change. That's why I recommend a balanced approach, mixing workplace coverage with individual policies for maximum flexibility.

    And let's not forget disability insurance—a lifeline if illness or injury leaves you unable to work. While often overlooked, it's a crucial safeguard against financial catastrophe.

    As we wrap up, remember: these pillars aren't just separate silos. They're interconnected, forming a sturdy foundation for your financial future. By prioritizing banking, savings, and insurance, you create a safety net that safeguards your investments and accelerates your path to wealth.

    Got questions? Reach out anytime via email, phone, or our anonymous question portal. I'm here to help you navigate the maze of financial planning and build a brighter tomorrow.

    Thanks for joining me on this journey. Until next time, stay financially savvy, my friends!

    Link to send in your questions: https://tr.ee/06NMCIkgz6

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    20 mins
  • Ep.48- Money Myths
    Feb 5 2024

    Remember those MythBusters days? I sure do! 📺 Watching entire episodes just to get that satisfying "Plausible," "Busted," or "Confirmed." 🤯 So, in the spirit of channeling my inner Adam and Jamie, I present to you a spin-off episode: Money Myths! 💸🔍

     

    Here are 8 common financial myths being put to the test:

    Buying a Home is Always Better Than Renting 🏡

    Carrying Credit Card Balances Boosts Your Credit Score 💳

    Precious Metals Are Always a Good Investment 🪙

    Giving up a daily coffee purchase is a financial game-changer ☕

    Money can make you happiest 😃💰

    My Partner Manages the Finances, So I Don’t Need to Know About Money 👫💼

    I Have Enough Money; I Don’t Need to Budget 💸📊

    All debt is bad debt 💳❌

     

    Have you heard of these before? Be sure to tune in to hear how I get my answers!

    Have a Question? Submit it here- https://65st8madhpz.typeform.com/to/NwRINN0w

    #WealthyHOMES #Mythbusters #MoneyMyths #FinancialMyths

     

    Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Securities & Advisory Services offered through Harbour Investments, Inc. Securities licensed in MI, FL, TN, CA, & WA. Member SIPC

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    36 mins
  • Ep.47- Should You Stay,Or Should You Go?
    Jan 16 2024

    Having guided countless young minds through career shifts, I've gained a unique perspective on the age-old dilemma: Should I stay or should I go? 🤷‍♂️

    In the aftermath of the Great Resignation spurred by COVID-19, a whopping 40% of Americans embraced change. Fast forward to 2023, and job movements hit an unexpected low. 📉 What's the deal – a post-resignation lull or a sneak peek into future job stability?

    Join me in decoding this career anomaly and unraveling the three key factors crucial in any career transition: Family, Money, and Benefits. 💼💰🌐

    Whether you're pondering a career leap or a slight pivot, this episode is your compass. Let's navigate the career landscape together! 🚀👥 #CareerTransitions #GreatResignationLegacy #WealthyHOMESPodcast

    Have a question? Submit it here! 

     

    Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Securities & Advisory Services offered through Harbour Investments, Inc. Securities licensed in MI, FL, TN, CA, & WA. Member SIPC

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    26 mins
  • Ep.46- Lookin Back on 2023 - All of the Guests!
    Jan 8 2024

    Reflecting on an incredible year of The Wealthy HOMES Podcast with a huge shoutout to the amazing 20+ guests who joined me on this financial adventure in 2023. 🌟 Building a network of dedicated individuals, all on a mission to empower young families in their financial journeys. Here's to the memories we've made and the wisdom we've shared. Excited for what 2024 has in store and the fantastic guests yet to come! 🚀

    Special Thanks to the 2023 Guests:

    Ryan Underhill- Farmers Insurance

    Kyle McGann- Supreme Lending

    Pat & James Gilbert- PFG

    Gavin Homer- The Homer Group with EXP

    Sandy Derby- PFG

    Marie Davis- CPCU

    Chris Micklatcher- Fresh Start Tax Solutions

    Ryan & Esther Leonard- The Leonard Group with EXP

    Nate Bauman- LVZ Investment Management

    Kyle Frizzell- Farm Bureau

    Jessica Brandow- Brandow Law

    Nate Hicks- Painted Arrow Outdoors

    Caleb Grummet- Grit Strength Systems

    Tristan & Jackson Bredehoft- Café Rica

    Pat Bush- Patman Droneography

    Tina & Andrew Benkovsky- Mooville

    Rob Harrison- PFG

     

    #WealthyHOMES #PodcastJourney #Gratitude #2023

    Securities & Advisory Services offered through Harbour Investments, Inc. Member SIPC.

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    25 mins
  • Ep.45- Home Sweet Loan with Kyle McGann
    Dec 26 2023

    🏠✨ Navigating the Mortgage Rollercoaster? Buckle up for some tips on taming those volatile interest rates! 🎢💰 On the latest episode-"Home Sweet Loan," Kyle and I spill the beans on steps smart homebuyers take to stay on top in the ever-changing mortgage market.

    📈 Discover the secrets to riding the waves of interest rate fluctuations with finesse. From timing your purchase to exploring mortgage options, we've got your back! 🔄💡

    But wait, there's more! 🚀 We're taking a deep dive into PERSONAL finances—unveiling the red flags and green flags in how people manage their money. 🚩🟢 Join us for a candid conversation on what sets you up for financial success or signals potential challenges.

    Tune in now on the Wealthy HOMES Podcast for insights, laughs, and a roadmap to the mortgage industry! 🎙️🔑 

    Kyle's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kylemcgann_lo/

    Kyle's Website: https://kylemcgann.supremelendinglo.com/

    Kyle's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-mcgann-495762198/

    #HomeSweetLoan #FinancialWisdom #MortgageMastery #WealthyHOMESPodcast

     

    Securities & Advisory Services offered through Harbour Investments, Inc. Member SIPC.

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    34 mins