The Investor Coaching Show with Paul Winkler

Investment News: SpaceX IPO, Hot ETFs, and a Timeline for the War in Iran

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul shares some of the most common concerns that investors are bringing to the office right now and why it’s helpful to talk to an advisor about what you’re seeing before you assume that it works with your financial plan. Listen along as Paul shares insights about the SpaceX IPO, a popular ETF with questionable returns, and Trump’s announcement regarding a timeline for the war in Iran, and helps you see some of the risks that aren’t being discussed in the news.

Want to cut through the myths about retirement income and learn evidence-based strategies backed by over a century of data? Download our free Retirement Income Guide now at paulwinkler.com/relax and take the stress out of planning your retirement.

This material is for general educational purposes only and is not personalized investment, ﬁnancial, tax, or legal advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing here is an offer, solicitation, or recommendation for any security or strategy. All ﬁnancial decisions involve risk, and you should consult qualiﬁed professionals before acting on this information.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Most Investors Are Watching Their Retirements Shrink Because of This Portfolio Problem

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul focuses on the vast majority of American investors who are blindly trusting the industry and are now overweighted in one of the year’s most poorly performing market segments. Listen along as Paul explains why overweighting in large U.S. companies has been an industry favorite for years, even though investment firms know this practice leaves investors vulnerable to numerous risks. Paul also explains how focusing your attention on the most well-known and profitable companies can actually weaken your portfolio. Later in the show, Paul shares how Blue Owl investors wake up and pull over $5 billion from the company's private equity funds.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Fear, Greed, and Loyalty: The Easiest Way To Make a Commission

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Paul started his financial career the way most people do: learning about financial products from insurance companies and brokerages, then trying to sell those products to investors for a commission. Listen along as the Investor Coach shares some inside industry information to help you understand that the whole industry is designed to appeal to your fear, greed, or loyalty to sell you solutions to problems that the industry has invented. Paul explains how to spot these sales tactics and what you need to become a more confident investor.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

How Do You Know an Investment Firm Is Right for You?

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Unfortunately, it is not difficult to get into the investment industry as a financial planner with no experience and very little education. However, each firm aggressively markets itself as the most qualified and most sophisticated fiduciary to help you manage your wealth and meet your goals. Today, a listener asks Paul: In an environment like this, how can you know that an investment firm is really right for you? Listen along as Paul explains that looking at an advisor’s planning process and education experience tells you everything you need to know to avoid making the wrong choice.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Diversify and Hold: The Confident Investor’s Strategy

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Investors who responded to the war in Iraq are now faced with a dilemma: Is it time to get back in the market? Are the U.S. and Iraq in talks that could move markets up, or is this just the beginning of a long slump in equity markets? Today, Paul explains why market timing is impossible to master. Listen along to hear why confident investors don’t rely on headlines and luck, but on a strategy that helps them reach their financial goals in the long term. Later in the episode, Paul explains why getting into a product with low liquidity creates fundamental problems for maintaining a healthy portfolio.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Why Do We Invest in Bonds? Why Not Buy an Annuity Instead?

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0500

It’s very common for financial professionals to convince investors that stocks are too risky and bonds won’t perform well enough to provide an income from your portfolio. Their solution almost always involves selling you confusing, high-commission annuity products. Listen along as Paul shares why annuities are a very bad replacement for bonds and why the people who don’t understand why they own bonds are the most likely to fall for this trap.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Annuities, Bonds, Stocks, Commodities, Real Estate: Not All of These Are Investments

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Only a few things are truly considered investments. There’s a good chance that you’ve heard of investment options recommended from an advisor or family or friends that don’t meet the criteria to be called an investment. Today, Paul walks through some of the most popular options people turn to when they want to invest and explains how confident investors can distinguish between investments and financial products.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Is Owning the S&P 500 Enough for Retirement?

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Paul and Jim tackle the overconfidence that many investors have in large U.S. stocks and explain why owning the S&P 500 alone doesn’t lead to confident investing, but to sequence of returns risk, lack of diversification, and worry over the health of U.S. companies and markets. Listen along as these two advisors share why you need to move from a product approach to a process approach to your investing. Later in the episode, Jim covers some new information the industry has about the strategies scammers are starting to use to get you doing what they want.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Texas Court Tosses Fiduciary Rules: A Big Win for Insurance Companies

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Texas throws out a Biden-era fiduciary rule giving insurance companies more license to sell bad products to people who don’t fully understand them. Today, Paul and Jim talk about how the industry uses the term “fiduciary” to build trust, but can just as easily push you toward products that are in the agent's best interest as well. Listen along to hear why fiduciary rules don’t fix the industry, but why removing them gives big insurance companies a lot of confidence to be misleading.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

The Investor Coach Answers: Should I Use My Age As My Bond Allocation?

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Paul answers a few popular questions directly from listeners of the show. Listen along as Paul responds to an investor who wants to know if the common strategy of using your age to determine your bond allocation is a reliable way to keep your portfolio healthy through retirement. Later in the episode, a listener wants to know how you monitor and manage the hidden trading costs inside a portfolio. Paul answers his question and explains how the industry uses “low-cost” to sell funds and where expenses rank among the criteria he considers in a fund.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

The Investor Coach Answers: How Will the War Affect Markets?

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul answers a few popular questions directly from listeners of the show. Listen along as Paul starts with a burning question for most investors: How will the war in the Middle East affect markets and investors saving for retirement? Later in the show, Paul addresses a listener's question about whether he has changed his position on owning precious metals, such as silver, given their widespread use in technology.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

The Design of Your Portfolio Determines Its Performance

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Everyone wants to fly in an airplane that has been carefully designed and constructed. The design of the airplane determines its performance. Today, Evan explains that the same principles apply to the design of an investment portfolio and can be the difference between reaching your destination and having to bail out in an emergency landing.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

The Investor Dilemma: Why It’s Hard for Investors To Relax About Money

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Evan talks about the investor dilemma. A common problem is that investors try to feel more comfortable by predicting the future and buying funds with good track records. As tempting as this may be for investors, it leads to emotional investing decisions and taking uncompensated risks. Listen along as Evan explains all these concepts and shares how to get out of this fear cycle and on the path to confident investing.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Adults Over 60 Are Losing Billions to These Scams. Don’t Be One of Them.

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Adults over 60 are much more likely to be the victim of a scam than of a violent crime or robbery at their home. Today, Evan shares an article highlighting the tactics used by scammers who are successfully stealing billions of dollars from people over the age of 60. Later in the episode, Evan discusses whether FINRA should be merged with the SEC and whether Wall Street’s primary regulatory authority can properly keep brokerage firms in check while remaining independent.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

The War in Iran: Oil Is Up. Stocks Are Down. How Are Investors Doing?

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Evan jumps straight into the headlines and shares how the war in Iran is doing two things most people expected: pushing stock prices down and oil prices up. But how are these changes affecting investors? Listen along as Evan covers this and discusses why the market hasn’t dropped enough to be considered a major dip, and whether the change in oil prices will cause a major disruption to your investments.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Paul and Evan Cover Basic Financial Questions

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

How much should you have in an emergency fund? And why? How do you make a personal budget that works for you? Is life insurance important? When am I ready to buy a house? Today, Paul and Evan cover these questions and more to help anyone who wants to know where they stand become more confident about money and investing.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

The Headlines Are Out of Control. Remember Positive News Takes Longer To Get Out.

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Paul shares some headlines that make it seem like the world is out of control and going to get worse. With these inflammatory headlines, Paul describes two psychological realities that can keep you from getting sucked into the fog of fear. Listen along as Paul reminds you that good news takes a while to hear and that people often remember the past as rosier than it actually was. Paul explains how you can move from worrying about the headlines to truly relaxing about money.

Later in the episode, Paul talks about the rise and decline of plant-based meat companies, and an investor he remembers being all in on these companies. Paul segues into how any investor can get sucked into venture capital and the idea of being on the front lines of new businesses.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

“People Should Be Free To Do What They Want.” Do We Really Believe That?

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Evan shares a few rules about Trump Accounts that have come out recently. Paul segues to an interview where the Robinhood CEO is pressed about an obviously dangerous investment that the SEC is shutting down. His response was, “People should be free to do what they want.” Paul pushes back hard to remind investors that this product is hurting investors and would be the equivalent of a drug dealer making the same comment about a drug that is killing the people who take it.

Later in the episode, Paul talks about the importance of teaching your kids about money and investing because the wealth you built through discipline can disappear if your heirs don’t understand how to manage it.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Another War in the Middle East Poses a Trap To Disciplined Investors

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Over the last week, we’ve heard many stories and predictions that remind us of events that have happened in the Middle East in recent history. When the news gets this big, even the most disciplined investors are tempted to respond to current events and make an emotional investing decision. Today, Paul and Evan read an article arguing that a real democratic revolution in Iran seems impossible until it happens. Listen along as these two advisors share why making investment decisions based on current events is a trap and how confident investors are humble enough to live with uncertainty, avoid market timing, and emerge on the other side.

Later in the episode, Evan discusses his research on the worst wars of the last 100 years and the market growth that occurred during those years, asking, “What happened to the people who went to cash knowing that war was coming?” Evan and Paul want you to know that people who are trying to get you out of the market right now don’t understand how wars affect companies.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

In Trying Times, You Don’t Need an Investing Club. You Need a Proven Method.

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Paul brings Jim Wood on the show to discuss the current climate and why it leaves investors vulnerable to people taking advantage of them. In a world where threats of war, a 24-hour financial news cycle, and an industry full of market timers dominate, investors are in danger of getting pushed into their emotions and then making changes that make the market makers money. Paul tells investors they don’t need an investing club to get ahead; they need a Nobel Prize-winning method that helps them reach their goals. Later in the episode, Paul talks about an important conversation you can have with your spouse to help you both feel more confident about your finances.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

“I’m 45 and Expect a Good, Long Recession.” Here’s What He’s Doing About It.

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Paul and Jim share a somewhat funny take in MarketWatch from an investor who is all over the place, but actually represents many people who are still trying to beat markets and be “good” at investing. Listen along as these two investors talk about how markets go up during recessions and why being a good investor isn’t about looking at all the news and trying to get your money in the right place at the right time. Later in the episode, Jim shares four signs to watch out for to avoid getting scammed out of a lot of money. Always remember, “If it sounds like it’s too good to be true, it probably is.”

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Worst Case in Iran: How Should Your Portfolio Perform During a Decline?

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Paul and Jim discuss the news in Iran and its unfolding developments. Listen along as these two advisors cover why uncertainty, war, and changing prices aren’t necessarily signs of market decline. How should your portfolio perform during a decline? Paul and Jim answer these questions and try to give you a bigger picture and possible positive outcomes that the media will never talk about. Paul and Jim talk about a veteran who wants to give their child a chance at a better financial future and wants to know if a Roth IRA is a good option. The advisors discuss the benefits of a Roth IRA and what they would walk through as an advisor before recommending a Roth IRA, 529 plan, or a non-qualified account. Later in the show, Paul and Jim discuss Trump Accounts and whether or not you should take advantage of the free $1,000 for new family members.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Is a War in Iran Likely To Hurt Your Retirement?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

It has been a big week for headlines with the joint attacks in Iran, leaving many investors questioning how this might affect markets and gas prices in the short term. News this significant makes investors ask, “What am I supposed to do?” Paul and Jim give their honest take on the current events in Iran and discuss some misconceptions about wartime and markets. Listen along as Paul teaches how war has historically affected markets and why war and downturns aren’t actually as dangerous to your retirement as market timing and reacting to the news.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

People Buy Milkshakes Early in the Morning. A New Product Is Born.

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Evan talks about how McDonald's discovered that most of their milkshakes were sold before 10 a.m., which sparked a heavily sold product that keeps many businesses running: the frozen coffee beverage. Listen along as Paul and Evan discuss how flexible and dynamic businesses can be and why trying to pick the winners out of the crowd has proved to be a bad tactic for investors. Later in the episode, Paul and Evan talk about private equity and why the industry seems to only focus on the upside: because it makes the industry a lot of money. Evan encourages investors to exchange the word “private” with “unregulated” and consider whether you want to put your money in unregulated equities.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Bitcoin’s Decline: Can It Compete With the Dollar? Does It Work as an Investment?

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Bitcoin drops 40%, but proponents try to claim that volatility is decreasing. Paul and Evan discuss the fundamental issue with trading a commodity that lacks a practical application in the world and competes with one of the most stable forces globally: the U.S. dollar. Listen along as these two advisors share a CNBC interview that’s working hard to spin some sort of upside to this investment. Later in the episode, Paul talks about how investments get priced and how this affects Bitcoin's limited supply.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

When Will the Tide Turn in Overseas Markets?

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Most diversified portfolios are not just even amounts of U.S. and international holdings. It’s more nuanced than that. Over the last few months, we’ve seen pundits who for years have encouraged investors to only own large U.S. companies but are now pushing international stocks because they have been outperforming the U.S. for a while. Paul and Evan remind you that confident investors don’t rely on past performance and news cycles to make investing decisions. Later in the episode, Paul talks about an investor who called the office this week to ask about a specific financial product.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Looking at Younger Investor’s Robinhood Account: Staying Curious and Humble

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Paul chatted with a curious young investor this week who was eager to share what he was investing in and ask for some constructive feedback. Listen along as Paul and Evan talk about showing investors the funds that have overlapping stocks and don’t offer more diversification. Paul and Evan share how this young investor was trying to follow the fundamentals of investing, but some of the most popular products in the industry aren’t designed to follow them. Later in the episode, Paul and Evan discuss markets and the economic effects of tariffs following this week's Supreme Court ruling on the Trump tariffs.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Technical Analyst Shows Their Hand: Bad Market Timing and Wild Speculation

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Many fund companies love to tout the strength of their technical analysis. They claim to have market experts poring over company books to see what should be in your portfolio and what should be out. Today, Paul shares a clip of a technical analyst really showing their lack of basic investment knowledge. Paul encourages you not to tie up your retirement with people who claim to be experts at market timing but ignore the basic rules of investing. Later in the episode, Paul discusses how younger people are being taught to view investing as entertainment, as predatory companies target the most active investors, encourage people to engage in “predictive markets” (aka gambling), and turn earnings reports into NFL-like post-game interviews.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Watch Out: Mortgages That Last Longer Than the House

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Imagine your house falling apart before your mortgage is even up. Unfortunately, this could become a reality for many homeowners. Homes are being built faster, bigger, and with lower-quality materials than they were 50 years ago. Today, Paul shares the devastating consequences when builders cut corners using materials and methods that aren’t built to last and homeowners don’t do their due diligence. Later in the episode, Paul does the work for you and looks through the disclosures Yrefy hides at the end of their TV ad. The disclosures clearly state that the investments are high-risk and untradeable, and liquidity is not guaranteed — even though the ad says otherwise. Paul warns, “Read the fine print yourself.” You won’t regret it.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

3 Myths of Investing: If You Know These, You’re Ahead of Most Investors (Part 2)

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

This week, we’re walking through some investing myths. It's super easy for people to get pulled into these myths because they appeal to our instincts and our emotions. Our instincts tell us to go toward pleasure and away from pain. Listen along as Paul walks you through some of the stickiest traps in the industry and shares guiding principles that should inform your investment decisions.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

3 Myths of Investing: If You Know These, You’re Ahead of Most Investors (Part 1)

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

This week, we’re walking through some investing myths. It's super easy for people to get pulled into these myths because they appeal to our instincts and our emotions. Our instincts tell us to go toward pleasure and go away from pain. Listen along as Paul walks you through some of the stickiest traps in the industry and shares guiding principles that should inform your investment decisions.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

What Keeps People From Saving for Retirement? Are You on Track?

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Evan shares research about what keeps people from saving for retirement. The list was long and included daily expenses, paying off debt, and caring for aging parents or children. The same research also concluded that people were starting major milestones later, but still felt confident about their retirement income. Listen along as Paul and Evan talk about how to know if you’re on track and how to overcome some of the practical and mental barriers to reaching your goals.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Edward Jones Head of Investment Strategy Encourages Investors to … Market Time

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul shares an interview with the Edward Jones head of investment strategy, where she’s pressed about the lackluster performance of the area of the market most of their investors are in: large U.S. companies. She finally admits that they are still “feeling good” about the U.S. economy, but now might be a good time to consider diversifying in smaller companies and international companies. Paul and Evan are pretty shocked that a Harvard Business School graduate, who helps millions of investors, would so blatantly tell investors to buy based on past performance and then call it diversification.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

We’re Not a Huge Fan of Trump Accounts. Here’s Why.

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul and Evan answer a listener's questions about Trump Accounts and how the investments get managed. Listen along as the two advisors cover the restrictions on investments, the low contribution limits, and the tax implications of using one of these accounts to invest for minors. Then they pivot to a question about a possible rule change to the order in which you can make retirement and catch-up contributions. After the break, Paul discusses how adding private equity investments to your portfolio puts your future in the hands of companies that don’t have to provide basic reports about the health of their business.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Bitcoin Has Dropped By Half Since August. Why Are Investors Digging in Their Heels?

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul and Evan talk about the catastrophic drop in Bitcoin’s value and why Bitcoin traders keep digging their heels in, hoping for a brighter future. Listen along as these two advisors share how personal bias and financial news spin keep this risky digital commodity that few people understand alive through hectic bouts of demands and sell-offs. Later in the episode, Paul discusses a refinancing company called Yrefy that is paying media personalities to push a product that sounds nice, but the numbers don’t add up. Paul cautions that if it sounds too good to be true, it is.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Choosing Your Investments Based on Your Time Horizon

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

This week, Paul has been methodically taking you through the basic principles of building a portfolio that will help you reach your goals. We’ve looked at how cash, bonds, and stocks work together to minimize risk and talked about why picking high-yield bonds and individual stocks opens you up to non-systematic risk (aka risk you wouldn’t get compensated for). Today, Paul discusses the final step in building a portfolio: letting your time horizon be the determining factor in where you allocate the money in your investments.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Asset Class Investing: The Key to Avoiding Uncompensated Risk

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

When we discuss investing in the stock market, most people think of investing in individual stocks. Paul shares that the returns with this approach are problematic. Listen along as Paul and Arlene talk about a different approach called asset class investing and explain the difference between picking individual stocks and investing in commingled investment vehicles.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Cash, Bonds, and Stocks: What's in Your Portfolio and Why? (Part 2)

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

A diversified portfolio contains a mixture of cash, bonds, and stock investments. Not knowing how these assets work together leads to some of the most common and harmful investing traps. Today, Paul invites Arlene Brown onto the show to explain how cash holdings, bonds, and stocks can work together to limit your risk of short-term market fluctuations and long-term inflation. Listen along as these advisors go into detail about the strengths and pitfalls of having investments in each category.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Cash, Bonds, and Stocks: What's in Your Portfolio and Why? (Part 1)

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Cathie Wood Got It Wrong in 2025, but What Does She Think About 2026?

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Paul shares a clip this morning that shows just how low the standard is for what financial media views as “credible” investing information. Listen along to hear an interview with Cathie Wood, CEO of Ark Invest, where she discusses the mistakes she learned from in 2025, which cost investors millions, and tries to get airtime to spin the 35% drop in Bitcoin as a victory in this market. Then, Paul addresses a listener who works a very physically demanding job and is in a tricky position, where long-term disability insurance is very expensive, and it’s possible that they won’t remain employed until retirement age. Paul shares some options for supplementing your income if you are not yet at the normal Social Security age.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

The Average Car Payment Is $780/month. Is That a Problem With the Market or With Human Behavior?

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

When most people buy a car, they take on a substantial car payment. But how long does the high of having a nice new ride really last? Today, Paul discusses why government intervention in making cars easier to buy has historically led to chaotic markets and other economic issues. Listen along as Paul explains why it’s difficult to really meaningfully change your level of happiness through things like new car purchases and how you can start to chart a course forward where the things in your life support your sense of purpose, instead of you spending your time and money working off things that don't bring you joy. Later in the episode, Paul addresses a listener who is curious about when you should start building up assets in a non-qualified account instead of a pre-tax account.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

What Happens if the Dollar Drops? Understanding the Cause and Effect of a Weaker Dollar

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul brings in a WSJ article that provides a list of potential events this year that could weaken the dollar against other world currencies. Paul wants confident investors to remember that you shouldn’t change your plan based on what may or may not happen in the future. Then, Paul explains why a weaker dollar isn’t always a bad thing for the U.S. economy, and why investors who follow the industry are more likely to be hurt by a weakening dollar. Later in the episode, would it be helpful for people to tap their 401(k) for a down payment on a home? Paul covers an article about a Trump administration plan to borrow from yourself to buy a house, and discusses the unseen risks of removing money that is making compound interest for something you need now.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

When Paul Says "Capturing Market Returns,” Is That Just Code for Indexing Everything?

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

When Paul first started this show, indexing and target-date funds were not very popular at all, as the world experienced a decade where large U.S. companies struggled to generate any returns for investors. Fast forward another decade, and indexing and target date funds are now all the rage as investors believe that “indexing” is synonymous with great returns, low fees, and wealth in retirement. Indexing may sound like diversification, but Paul explains what really happens when millions of investors choose this path for their portfolios. Later in the episode, Paul shares where fund companies make the biggest mistakes with indexing and provides a blueprint for capturing market returns that won’t leave you overweight in a few companies.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Annuity Sales Are Dangerous. Here Is the Proof.

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Paul runs into an annuity salesperson on Facebook who reveals that he made $300,000 in income in his first month and wasn’t remotely interested in helping people, but in showing off his skills to his peers. So, where does caring for clients fit into most of these sales? Paul shares the four steps people use to sell these products that you can look out for, and why it’s just not possible to trust high-commission products salespeople to look out for you when their companies are pushing them to produce sales.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

We All Have an Expiration Date. How Can You Live With Purpose?

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Evan talks about a celebration of life service he attended earlier in the day and reflects on how you never know how long life will be and how having a strong sense of purpose changes your perspective about money. Listen along as these two advisors describe why investing just to be good at investing and have a lot of wealth is what sucks you into get-rich-quick schemes and marketing trends.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Your Home or Your Portfolio: Where Should Your Investment Money Go?

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Paul and Evan get into a conversation about a common question for homeowners: Is it a better investment to put extra money in my house or in my portfolio? Paul talks about why you shouldn’t view your home as an investment unless you plan on selling it and moving into a tent. Listen along as these two advisors explain the importance of paying off or improving your home without viewing it as an investing decision. Later in the episode, Paul discusses how Trump is cracking down on corporate ownership of residential housing.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Jim Cramer’s Investing Club Leads To Stock Picking, Not Confidence in Investing

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

We often discuss being a confident investor on the show, but confidence is only helpful if it’s combined with a disciplined, evidence-based approach rather than behaviors such as market timing or individual stock selection. Today, Paul shares an ad for Jim Cramer’s investing club that he saw on CNBC, where a client claims she is confident and finally “in control” of her investments. The ad reveals that Jim teaches people to “win at investing” through market timing and stock picking. Paul and Evan explain why you shouldn’t follow someone who offers club memberships and provides stock-picking advice. Later in the episode, Paul and Evan answer a listener's question about the number of publicly traded companies in the stock market and how a diversified portfolio can be constructed.

Advisory services offered through Paul Winkler, Inc., an SEC-registered investment adviser.

Pundit Gives “13 Funds To Own in 2025.” How Did He Do?

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Paul and Jim talk about a pundit who told investors which funds to own in 2025, and those funds had a return of over 14%. Paul admits that most investors who saw this increase in their portfolio would probably think they did pretty well last year. The problem is that without benchmarking, they wouldn’t realize that the funds did worse than the S&P 500 and underperformed the market's leading sector by 35%. Listen along as these advisors break down what is wrong with these investments and why benchmarking is the only way to know how your investments are doing.

Robinhood Found the Best Way To Make Money on You: Greed and Dopamine Addiction

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Every investment company is working to sell you on the idea that they can help you build wealth through cutting-edge technology and financial expertise, but the reality is that many of these companies, like Robinhood, are making money off you through activating your emotions and trying to cultivate a dopamine addiction around the gamification of gambling. Listen along as Paul and Jim talk about some of the strategies Robinhood uses to mislead investors and take your money while claiming to help you earn big bucks. Later in the episode, Paul brings up a couple who moved to Ecuador and are living off of their social security benefits and discusses why this kind of behaviour may be enticing for people who didn’t make a plan, but could actually be quite dangerous.

Properly Preparing to Pass Your Finances to Your Loved Ones

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

No one likes to think about the day when they will no longer be here and their spouse or children will have to take on more responsibility in managing the family's finances. Today, Paul brings an article about the different approaches people take to preparing important information — such as your primary doctor, accountant, or attorney, as well as passwords and automated payments — as well as retirement accounts and their management. Listen along as Paul shares about PWI’s “love letter,” a document template that will help your family transition after you’re gone without adding stress to an already difficult time. Later in the episode, Tesla is betting their future on a completely automated workforce, but we still don't have the 20-hour workweek we were promised a few decades ago.

Big News out of Venezuela. What Does It Mean for Your Investments?

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Paul talks about the news of America's capture of the Venezuelan president, Nicolás Maduro, and how this will lead to uneducated investors making one of the most painful money mistakes. Listen along as Paul talks about why responding to the news with either fear or greed comes from the basic misconception that investing is really just gambling or that knowing what will happen in the future gives you an edge in investing. Paul dispels these investing myths and encourages you to stay the course. Later in the episode, Paul shares a market prediction from Fidelity about 2025 that could have hurt your portfolio had you listened to one of the largest investment managers in the world.

Most Investors Fail the Diversification Test

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul shares some research that shows over 80% of investors near retirement have portfolios that lack diversification and that most investors equate large U.S. companies and cash with safety. The problem is that portfolios like these can be very difficult to take an income from and leave you vulnerable to market fluctuations. Listen along as Paul explains why a financial advisor can help teach the academic principles behind building a portfolio and why most fund companies don’t even sell funds that help investors make sure they are capturing market returns and minimizing risk.

Don’t Go Into 2026 Aimlessly. SMART Goals Could Help You in the New Year.

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

A new year provides a new opportunity to change your life for the better by reflecting and setting new goals. Today, Paul talks about why understanding yourself helps you actually reach your goals, instead of setting them and getting stuck in the same old patterns. Listen along to hear how you can work with your brain to overcome old patterns and have a better year in 2026. Later in the episode, Paul shares why sharing your goals with someone you trust can open new doors, bring meaningful insight, and increase your chances of success in the new year.

Crypto Investors Got What They Wanted in 2025, but Prices Keep Dropping

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0500

Last year should have been a great year for crypto investors. The digital assets received favorable treatment from a pro-crypto government, and the financial industry plugged the investment at every turn. Unfortunately, that didn’t make a positive difference in market prices. Listen along as Paul shares why this year brought more losses for people who have been swept up in the crypto craze and why it doesn’t look like the currencies will become better investments anytime soon. Later in the episode, Paul and Nik talk about a future of driverless cars and why changes in technology often lead to fear or greed.

The People Managing Your 401(k) Are Just Making It Up As They Go Along

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul explains that fund companies that offer your 401(k) plans are choosing investments that seem safe and popular. These low-cost funds focus heavily on large U.S. companies and keep your money out of the highest-performing markets of 2025. Paul explains how these fund companies have ditched academic research, forcing them to make it up as they go along. Later in the episode, Paul discusses the disillusionment of the youngest generation of investors and what might lead them to find purpose and success in their work and investing.

A New Offering in 401(k)s That Will Hurt Your Retirement

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

This year, private company funds made their way into 401(k) plans around the country. While Paul doesn’t think these funds adequately pay for your risk, there is another problem that makes these products even worse. Listen along as Paul and Evan explain why many investors will get sucked into a product where companies don’t have to disclose important information about their finances, which public companies are required to disclose.

Most People Would Admit It’s Better To Be Happy Than Wealthy. How Do You Do It?

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Money is a tool to help you express what is most meaningful to you. People who have a good relationship with money typically have a deep sense of purpose. Today, Paul and Evan have a conversation about how younger Americans report feeling a lower sense of purpose, how to get on the right track about what’s most important to you, and how you can use money to help you live a meaningful life.

401(k)s Are Designed for Confusion. Educated Investors See Through the Fog.

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Since 401(k)s are full of hidden fees, poorly diversified funds, stock picking, and market timing, how can you make the most of your employer-matched retirement option? Today, Paul and Evan explain why 401(k)s are designed to be confusing and misleading and how you can work with an advisor to learn what your options are and be a more confident investor.

All I Want for Christmas Is an S&P 500 Rally

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul and Evan discuss the holiday season and how most investors have a large U.S. rally on their Christmas wish list this year. Listen along to hear the two advisors share why putting your hope in the industry and large U.S. companies usually leads to watching markets and having your emotions pulled around by things you can’t control. Later in the episode, Paul brings up how loyalty used to be meaningful to your insurance company and why it is important to occasionally shop around to see if there is a better deal.

Love What You Do and Prepare for the Day You Can’t Do It Anymore

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Everyone will eventually reach a point where they can’t or no longer want to work. Paul and Jim discuss U.S. doctors who earn the highest wages in the world but dislike their jobs. Listen along to hear how purpose, work, and finances can either create a nightmare for you in the future or allow you to be flexible and choose what is best for you in any season. Later in the episode, Paul talks about Robinhood’s ADV and why it is crucial to look at ADVs before you give your money to trading platforms or fund companies.

Companies Are Marketing Against the 60/40 Portfolio Because They Mismanage Them

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul and Jim cover an article and an interview that spreads misinformation about 60/40 portfolios and exposes the industry's problem with them: They never set them up or manage them correctly, and then complain about the results. Listen along to learn about why the industry wants to push you in other directions when taking retirement income and what the Nobel Prize-winning research says instead.

You Should Always Take Social Security at Age …

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul and Jim discuss an article that claims the math proves the optimal age to take Social Security is 70. Listen along as these advisors talk about why each plan is unique and some reasons it may be a bad choice to take it at that age. Confident investors know that taking benefits at a mathematically perfect age can be a trap, but learning about your own plan and goals can help you discover the right age for you to start taking benefits.

The Reason People Aren’t Becoming Homeowners in 2025

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul and Jim open the episode by discussing a challenge that often sneaks up on newly retired investors: trusting the process and letting their money work for them. The two advisors then acknowledge the difficulty of becoming a homeowner in 2025 and share a few different opinions about why the average age of a first-time homeowner is now 40. Listen along as they break down these takes and add their experience to the conversation.

Robinhood Has Changed the Culture of Investing for the Next Generation

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Getting investors to recognize the limitations of stock picking has always been a problem. Now, it is even more difficult because Robinhood has changed the investing culture for the next generation. Today, Paul, Evan, and Jim talk about how Robinhood has exploded by blurring the lines between investing, which requires patience and a long-term outlook, and betting, which focuses on entertainment and short-term results.

America in Decline: Economies Need Populations to Grow

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul, Evan, and Jim discuss why steady population growth is an important factor in an economy's health and prosperity. The problem is that population growth is difficult to affect through policy. Listen along as these advisors discuss how the U.S. government has worked to incentivize marriage and family, whether the Trump accounts are a similar tactic, and how policies that slow immigration also exacerbate the issue of population growth.

NASCAR Driver Sues Pacific Life for $8.5 Million Over Indexed Universal Life Policy

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul, Jim, and Evan bring up a lawsuit between NASCAR driver Kyle Busch and Pacific Life. Busch was sold a life insurance policy that would allow him to pull out $800,000/year after he turned 52. After many attempts to talk with his agent, it seems his money is gone. Listen along to hear why insurance products that claim to be “safe” are even too risky for someone who drives race cars professionally.

No Plan and No Purpose: The Fastest Way To Make Someone Else Rich

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Evan and Jim join Paul on the show today to talk about how easy it is to start heading in the wrong direction with your finances. The industry is designed to confuse you and wear you down, and people's instincts lead them to what feels exciting or safe. Paul shares an honest clip about NFTs and how millions were lost in the craze. Listen along as these advisors share why living with purpose and knowing your plan puts you in the driver’s seat of your finances and helps you relax about money.

Propagandist Uses War-Time Strategies on American Consumers

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Marketers work hard to manipulate your opinion of health and prosperity largely because of a man named Edward Bernays. Today, Paul shares a video about Edward Bernays, Sigmund Freud’s nephew, who worked hard after WWII to sell products to American consumers through manipulation and psychology. Listen along to hear how Bernays’ propaganda principles have shaped advertising and modern life in the United States for the last 80 years. Later in the episode, Paul shares that most of the companies and cryptocurrencies closely associated with President Trump are in a huge slump, which illustrates why you can’t use politics to predict the future and make a profit.

Investing and Sports Betting on the Same App. How Did This Happen?

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Americans for decades have learned about investing in school through a game that puts gambling at the center of the process. Fast forward a few generations, and companies like Robinhood have taken over the industry, offering both investing and sports betting on the same platform. Listen along as Paul explains that when you truly invest, you should be able to look at market benchmarks to measure your success, but when you gamble, you are stuck comparing the odds on different games at the casino, where the house always wins.

Learning a Lesson From the '90s About Betting on AI

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Each time we seem to be on the brink of a technological paradigm shift, investors flock to bet on the companies that are vying to win the technological race. Today, Paul reminds investors what happens when you try to bet on winners and losers and let greed enter the investing process. Listen along as Paul explains why AI has the potential to make all investors profit, but could really hurt the few investors who forget that none of the top 30 tech companies in 2000 made it to 2025 in the same position.

This Is How To Move From Anxiety to Confidence

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul shares that people who experience the most stress in life tend to focus more on the outcomes than on the process. Today, Paul talks about why happiness is more difficult to achieve the more you chase it. Listen along to hear why Paul believes that controlling what is in your control and focusing your attention on daily tasks and pleasures turns your brain from a place of anxiety to a place of confidence. Later in the episode, Paul talks about the most powerful parts of your brain and how you can use them to start taking small steps that will make your life better.

What Happens if You Put Tax Benefits Before Everything Else

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Who wants to pay more taxes than they should to the government? No one. Today, Evan and Paul talk about taxes and why companies use your desire to pay less in taxes to push you into investment vehicles that might actually cost you more in the long run.

"Fiduciary" Is a Marketing Buzzword in an Industry Full of Loopholes

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Evan shares an ad from a company that features a concerned investor trying to determine if they need a fiduciary for their investments. Paul and Evan break the illusion by sharing just how easy it is for the industry to lure people in with the term fiduciary and then hide behind loopholes and confusing disclosures. Fiduciary is supposed to mean someone who acts in your best interest, but the standard is not high enough.

Gold, the U.S. Dollar, Real Estate, and Stocks. What Makes Them Worth Anything?

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul and Evan continue a conversation about what makes gold valuable and why so many investors believe it’s a strong investment. The two advisors then expand on the idea to discuss currencies, real estate, and stocks. How does the market decide what something is worth, and why does Paul exclude some popular commodities from his portfolio?

The FED’s Job Is To Provide a Stable Currency. Are They Doing a Good Job?

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul and Evan share some commentary on the U.S. Federal Reserve and why its job is to create a stable currency, not a zero inflation economy. Listen along to learn about the history of the Federal Reserve and about how inflation can actually be a useful tool in the U.S. economy. Later in the episode, Paul shares why he doesn’t include gold as an investment in any investment portfolio.

A Legacy of Excellence: Warren Buffett’s Final Stockholder Letter

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Warren Buffett is a brilliant business owner with a long history of buying companies and learning how to provide value. This year, he released his final letter to stockholders, focusing not on his investing success but on the people who have had the greatest impact on him and the gratitude he has for all those who have worked with him and contributed to his success over the years. Listen along as one of the world’s most successful investors shares all the things that are more meaningful to him than money. Later in the episode, Evan shares an article about people who are constantly trying to maximize their portfolio and when it’s time to stop tweaking.

Enjoy Your Holidays. Knock Out This Financial Checklist for the End of 2025

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Evan shares a list of important items to consider before the holiday season ramps up and most people scramble to complete their end-of-year financial planning. Whether you are newer at investing or have been in retirement for many years, listen along to hear how to ring in the New Year with confidence around money and investing.

Can You Properly Define Capitalism, Socialism, and Democratic Socialism?

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Evan shares about the shift that has been happening in younger Americans away from free market capitalism toward more socialist economic policies. Evan wants you to be able to understand the basics behind these economic systems and why capitalism has created the wealthiest nation in the world, while socialism has never successfully been implemented to scale anywhere in the world at any point in history.

Why Do Investors Fail? Why Can’t They Seem To Get Ahead?

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Evan hosts the show and discusses what keeps investors from reaching their goals and why, each year, investor performance reports show that people earn less than market returns. Listen along to hear why investor behavior is the most important factor to the outcome of your portfolio and which behaviors to avoid and adopt in your investing journey.

4 Million Americans Are Living Abroad. Here’s Why.

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul and Evan get into a discussion about the 4 million Americans who have chosen to live abroad to stretch their dollars and experience a higher quality of life. Listen along to hear how it is going for these Americans and if we can expect to see this trend grow. Later in the episode, Paul and Evan find many people turning to AI instead of advisors for financial advice. Unfortunately, these investors don’t know how to prompt AI for the right kind of information, are asking the wrong questions, and are getting back bad information provided by financial companies' marketing firms.

Musk’s Huge Payout Package/When You Need a Counselor and Not a Financial Planner

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul and Evan hit a variety of topics in this episode, starting with Tesla’s future and Musk’s incentives to stay with the company, and then pivoting to a pet peeve of Paul’s: trying to use money to solve relationship problems. Listen along as these two advisors discuss innovation in business and why getting married shouldn’t be a financial decision, but rather a commitment between partners.

First-Time Homebuyers: Don’t Be Afraid To Wait and Don’t Be Afraid To Start Small

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

The average first-time homebuyer is almost 40 now — up almost seven years since 2020. Paul and Evan discuss the challenges of being a first-time homebuyer in today's market and the shifting attitudes toward home ownership. Listen along as these advisors share the steps of purchasing your first home, some advice they have for people considering home ownership, and why first-time homebuyers shouldn’t be afraid to start small and wait until the time is right.

The Industry Wants You To Think They Have Market Experts Choosing the Best Companies

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul and Evan continue a conversation they had last week about how the promises made by socialist governments are similar to those made by the investing industry. The industry wants you to believe that they have a group of experts who can choose the best companies for your portfolio. Listen along to hear why confident investors don’t trust the industry to gamble with their investments. Later in the episode, Paul shares a story about a famous fund manager who has repeatedly been wrong yet still has managed to get airtime.

Progress Comes Through Effort: Socialism vs. Capitalism

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Progress comes through effort. Paul and Evan share an interview about how socialism is being marketed to people around the world as a cure for their problems. The problem is that when we look at socialist governments, they have not been good for the people they serve. Listen along to hear why capitalism can be a hard sell to people, but has so far proven to give the most opportunity to the most people. Paul shares that the way people get sold on bad investments is the same way people get sold on socialism through the belief that they can sidestep the work and get straight to the results.

Private Equity: The Industry's Newest Way to Overcharge for a Bad Product

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

The industry is looking to pull you into investments that let them charge you more fees to manage your portfolio. Private equity is making headlines this year and being sold as a unique opportunity for you to invest in the same things uber-wealthy investors do, but everyone fails to mention that this is similar to ESG investing, with lots of hype, lots of risk, and worse returns.

A Gold Infomercial That Sounds Like Education, but Is Holding Back

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul shares an infomercial on gold that goes in-depth into bank runs and presidential executive orders, trying to convince you that gold has always been a strong investment. Listen along as Paul expands on this education to help you understand that they are priming you for a sale, not offering you financial advice out of the kindness of their hearts. Later in the episode, Evan brings up the latest attempt to push investors into crypto and explains why the house always wins in speculative investing.

Property Fraud: Learn About the Laws and Safeguards With Holly Hemmrich, Register of Deeds

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Property fraud affects many property owners who don’t understand their rights or how to safeguard their ownership. Today, Paul invites Holly Hemmrich, Register of Deeds for Sumner County, to talk about how to properly own and safeguard your property, as well as insurance products to avoid, free resources for property owners, and how to spot scammers.

Watch Someone Teach an Advisor How To Manipulate Your Emotions

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul wants you to know that one of the most dangerous things you can do is get into a room with an advisor who knows how to manipulate your emotions and sell you a product that gives them high commissions. Today, Paul shares a video where someone is teaching you how to sell annuities, right down to the words to say and body language to use to make you feel safe and consider the product. By learning these tactics, you can learn to spot the difference between financial help and sales.

Cap-Weighted Funds Are Very Popular in the Industry. What Are They?

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul talks about cap-weighted funds, a popular method for trying to represent an area of the market through capitalization. Listen along to hear what these funds are, what capitalization means, and why companies call these funds diversified, but leave millions of investors mostly owning a few of America’s largest companies.

Post-College Debt Is Tough. How Do You Pay It Off?

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Many Americans experience a similar experience straight out of college. They have hefty student loans and potentially the lowest pay of their entire careers. Today, Paul talks about his experience of first moving to Nashville, walks through a WSJ article about paying off student debt, and shares some of the crazy things people do in their early days to get on the right financial track. He then segues into a conversation about new information on 2026 tax brackets.

Don't Fall for the Marketing. Take a Deeper Look.

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 14:00:00 -0500

Mutual fund companies are professional marketers. Today, Paul talks about how often these companies say all the right things about diversification. Confident investors learn to look past what the companies' marketing materials say and see that the investments they are selling tell a much different story. Later in the episode, Paul wants investors to understand that the run-up in gold isn’t a fluke, but it also isn’t because gold is such a good investment to own.

Building Your Confidence in Your Financial Future (Part 2)

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Fund companies, media outlets, and even advisors are constantly vying for your attention to sell you products and services. So how do you learn to cut through the noise and make the decisions that are right for you? In a two-part episode, Paul covers these topics and teaches you how to develop confidence in your financial goals and the plan that will help you get there. Listen along to hear how Nobel Prize-winning strategies can help you understand how goals, plans, and products can all work together to help you feel confident about investing.

Building Your Confidence in Your Financial Future (Part 1)

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

An Investing Lie the Media Wants You To Believe

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

When Paul asks most beginner investors, “What is a financial advisor's job supposed to be?” he usually gets a familiar answer that involves understanding how markets work, being in the right part of the market at the right time, and knowing the best products to own. Today, Paul reveals that this is actually a lie perpetuated by the financial media, as most people you see weighing in on TV are being paid to be there. Listen along as Paul helps you understand the media bias around timing the market and buying investments after they’ve already gone up.

Are We in an AI Stock Bubble?

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

There has been a lot of talk about AI and whether or not eager investors have created a bubble in AI stock that could hurt all investors. Today, Paul talks about market bubbles and why they are more dangerous to some than others, and why the activity we see around AI stocks doesn't look like an irrational run-up just yet.

Jim Kramer Is Selling Books and Selling Investors on Market Timing

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Jim Kramer is taking every opportunity to sell young investors on his new book and the idea of “making it big” investing. Listen along as Paul talks about why pundits like this get a lot of airtime even though their advice has historically been a disaster to take.

Running Out of Money at the Worst Possible Time

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

The industry likes to push investors into popular and predictable investments with low returns and low diversification. The result of this is a dwindling portfolio and an inflation problem in your 80s and beyond. Listen along as Paul explains why the strategies and products that promise you “safety” will actually lead to you running out of money at the worst possible time: after you are no longer able to work.

Markets Can Be Inefficient, but Not for Long Enough To Do Anything About It

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul continues a conversation about how markets work and how that guides the investments that should go into your portfolio. Listen along as Paul explains what happens when an opportunity to take advantage of the market occurs, and how attempting to time the market feels exciting but leaves you with a portfolio that is a fraction of what it could be.

Gold Hits New Record High and Emotional Investors Get Sucked In

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul talks about a new record high gold hit this week and why gold is one of the most emotional investments people get involved in. Listen along as Paul shares a pundit who is giddy with excitement this week as gold rises to hit its highest level and discusses why you should never choose an investment based on recent performance.

Another New Investing Book That Won’t Get You the Results You Want

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul finds a segment on CNBC that is pushing a new investment book called “How to Make Money in Any Market.” The host and author seem really into the topic of helping the average investor make wise decisions — until you start to hear what some of the advice is. Listen along to find out why the advice may seem nice when you’re watching television, but the author is more likely to make money selling the book than you are by doing what it says.

The Hidden Costs of Trying To Win Big With Stocks

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul and Jim talk about a WSJ article that explains how companies are charging 15–20% annual fees to customers who are trying to play the market like a slot machine. Listen along as Paul shares the slippery slope from being afraid of the future, wanting to get ahead, and then trusting the past performance of a fund or manager to try to play catch-up. Later in the episode, Paul talks about how QCDs are a great opportunity to give back to your community.

Popular Trends from 2025 in Financial Planning

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Jim brings the results of a survey of financial planners on what they believe is most important for their clients in 2025. The results are absolutely underwhelming. Listen along as Paul and Jim process how the industry got to this state where half of the advisors don't even believe that a product really needs to be suitable for you if it has other qualities. Later in the episode, “finfluencers” (financial influencers) have taken over the internet. Their job is to look smart and help companies sell products by gaining your trust.

Send This to Someone Who Trusts Big Firms or Their Job To Get It Right

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

The financial industry is pretty broken. All the large firms have found ways to provide you with the cheapest and least services possible without taking any responsibility. They have also learned how to present flashy strategies, product pitches, and market news to keep you distracted. Today, Paul and Jim give you an insider's look at the industry and warn you that not only have they fooled investors, but they’ve always fooled your employers.

AI Is an Innovation. Here’s Why Companies Love It and What It Could Mean for Your Job

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul and Evan discuss a common fear among today’s employees: Will AI replace my job? Listen along to hear why so many companies are adopting this innovation, how it could affect your job, and why, as an investor, you should be optimistic about how this could impact markets going forward. Later in the episode, Paul and Evan remember the late John Clements, a prominent British financial writer for The Wall Street Journal who passed away last month.

Why Annuity Payouts Get Worse Every Year

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Evan and Paul talk about some research Paul put together around an average annuity payout. Initially, the payout looks okay — until you factor in inflation. Listen along as these two advisors explain why giving your retirement savings to an insurance company may look great now, but it will leave you with a fraction of the purchasing power in the future.

Demand for Gold Is up Amid Uncertainty. Educated Investors Won’t Take the Bait.

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Gold is up 39% this year, largely due to the uncertainty in markets created by Trump's trade policy. The problem is that gold is just a commodity, and its value is based on what someone is willing to pay for it. Today, Paul and Evan discuss why gold's price rise is circumstantial and why educated investors still prefer diversification and buying and holding over buying something when it’s hot and hoping to get out before it goes down.

How To Sell an Annuity in 10 Minutes

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Annuities are still one of the most dangerous financial products when it comes to accumulating assets for your retirement years. They are insurance products with huge commissions and back-end surrender charges that trap your money in phantom accounts, leaving you stuck against inflation with no assets to give to future generations. However, they are confusing products, and you can make a lot of money selling them. Today, Paul shares a video he found on social media that will teach him “how to sell an annuity in 10 minutes.” Listen along as Paul encourages you to learn these sales tactics so you can spot them and avoid this common investing trap.

Advisors Get Sucked Into Stock Picking Because They Don’t Have This Education

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul remembers a big push in the ’90s by professors and economists, like Fama and French, to teach advisors why stock picking is hurtful to their clients and how to help people invest without opening them up to unnecessary risk. Today, Paul talks about some of these lessons, why stock picking is still so prevalent in the industry, and what you can look out for to avoid advisors like these.

Past Performance Is Driving Your Investing Decisions. You Need Another Option.

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul talks about how what has happened in the last one, three, or five years heavily affects your investing decisions. Are stocks up this year? Maybe I should get in. Are interest rates high? Maybe it’s a good time to own bonds or CDs. Annuities even craft products that would have done well in the last 10 years and then sell them to people based on their track record. There is another way to invest that doesn’t keep you glued to how markets are doing right now or worried about the next bubble. Listen along as Paul shares an article about market bubbles and crashes and then explains why you don’t need to be able to predict them to be a successful investor.

Are You Behind? How Much Is Everyone Else Saving for Retirement?

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul finds that comparison is a very dangerous game and that people don’t give themselves enough credit for their unique abilities or situation. Today, Paul discusses an article that shares the average retirement savings for people in their 60s. Whether you’re ahead of the curve or struggling through a tough situation, like a divorce, the death of a spouse, or the loss of a job, one of the best ways to grow and become stronger in your finances is by working with an advisor who knows your situation and can help you get stronger and move toward your goals.

Get These Four ETFs and You’ll Be Set for Life

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

This week, Evan sends Paul a video called “The Only Four ETFs You’ll Ever Need.” Paul explains how marketing campaigns like this draw investors in with something they understand. Paul plays a few clips from the video and shares how these four ETFs could really get you in trouble if they were your whole financial plan. Listen along to hear how an educated investor can pick apart this kind of marketing and avoid common investing traps. Later in the episode, Paul shares a WSJ piece claiming that everyone needs a little gold in their portfolio. Is that true?

These Investments Were Fads and Failed. What Can We Learn?

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Evan shares a list of some of the most famous investment fads and talks about why these fads drove markets and ultimately lost investors a lot of money. Listen along to hear what we can learn from these kinds of investments and how we can spot some of them today.

Your True Purpose for Money Will Anchor You When the World Is Chaotic

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Evan talks about the 24th anniversary of 9/11 and remembering this week that the news can get very somber without any notice. So, how do you keep yourself from being pushed and pulled by the world so that you can stay the course and fulfill your calling? The answer lies in discovering your values and your true purpose for money.

Market Downturns: When Is the Next One Going To Happen?

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul and Evan talk about how enticing it is for pundits and experts to look at markets and predict when the next downturn will occur. A common trap these two advisors see is investors jumping in and getting bullish, then realizing that their investment strategies are dangerous because their account keeps going up. Listen along to hear Paul and Evan explain why diversified investing is important in all kinds of markets.

Robinhood Rockets Into S&P 500 With Gambling and Other Addictive Practices

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul and Evan discuss how Robinhood has grown to become one of the largest companies in the United States by gambling on stocks, crypto, and other speculative assets. When asked in an interview about whether investors are also turning to more traditional forms of investing for retirement, the company basically replied, “No, and we don’t care.” Listen along to hear these two advisors talk about why this kind of investing is so popular and how it’s making a fortune for the company at the expense of the investor.

Someone Finally Shares How They Were Scammed at a Steak Dinner

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul shares a video from someone who was courted to a steak dinner, fed incomplete information, and then sold a product they didn’t fully understand. In most industries, this would be viewed as a scam or at least fraudulent, but in the investing industry, this is completely normal. Listen along as Paul explains that offering you a bribe, trying to “reeducate” you, and then manipulating you to make money is not his idea of good financial education or planning.

This “Educational” Video About Fidelity Funds Gets an F. Watch Out for These.

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul has an algorithm feed him a seemingly relevant video about choosing the right Fidelity funds to grow his portfolio. The problem is that the algorithm isn’t designed to look out for bad financial advice. After watching the video, Paul gives the advice an F and is concerned that videos like these sound convincing and the person in it looks like they have done some research. The problem is that this YouTuber has no responsibility to you and is more focused on growing a following than helping you have income in retirement. Later in the episode, Paul asks Evan what he thinks about short-term interest rates.

This Is Why Investing “News” Is Too Slow To Successfully Market Time

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Evan brings in an investing “newspaper” that claims to have insider information about tech and cybersecurity companies and is filled with articles claiming that this section is due for a big rise in value. Paul and Evan explain why all financial news is too slow for regular investors to play the market timing game, when traders have spent fortunes trying to gain an advantage of fractions of a second on trading platforms. Later in the episode, Paul talks about someone who realized their mother lost millions of dollars because of a bad investment decision, and what he does when someone comes into the office with this kind of situation.

America’s Federal Bank Stays Independent/Social Security Penalty for Early Retirement

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul and Evan talk about the Federal Reserve remaining neutral amidst Trump's rhetoric around trying to influence the bank and interest rates. The two advisors talk about why they aren’t confident that Trump will follow through on the pressure and dive into some of the history of this independent bank, as well as which countries have not kept their nation’s banks independent and which countries don’t have nationalized banks at all. Then, they switch topics to address a listener's question about how social security benefits are penalized if you retire early and how to calculate if you’re hurting or helping your benefit if you continue to work past your retirement age.

Inflation Could Continue Moving Forward. How Do You Keep Up?

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul talks about a few factors that could keep driving inflation up beyond the most recent round of tariffs. With prices continually moving up, how are regular consumers and investors supposed to keep up? Listen along as Paul addresses this topic and explains some of what we’ve seen in the U.S. since 1970. Later in the episode, Paul talks about how AI isn’t catching on with women the same way it is with men and how junk bonds seem to be tripping up a lot of investors right now.

Choosing Default Investments Overexposes You to Companies Like Amazon

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul talks about some of the first choices you have as an investor. Do you invest pre-tax or post-tax, and what funds do you choose? Listen along as Paul talks about how most funds you can choose are over-weighted with large tech companies, but don’t include enough of smaller markets. This combination leaves you in the same boat as most investors: seeing less returns than the market and wondering what you could be doing differently.

Where Does Gold Fit Into Investing? One of Paul’s Most Asked Questions

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul tackles one of the most common questions he gets from investors, workshops, classes, and interviews: How much gold should I be invested in? For long-time listeners of the show, his answer isn’t surprising, but it is just as relevant now as ever. Listen along as Paul explains why gold isn’t even considered an investment and why the risk and reward of putting money in gold make it very difficult to recommend.

Boredom: An Overlooked Ingredient to Financial Success

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Paul explores an often-overlooked factor in achieving financial success: boredom. He argues that boredom can lead to poor financial decisions, such as overspending or chasing "new" market strategies. People have a hard time staying the course and want to feel like active participants in improving their lives. Listen along as Paul explains why one of the hardest and best things you can do with your finances is not doing anything at all. Later in the episode, Paul explains why he thinks that an “equal-weighted” S&P 500 fund is a bad idea.

Humans Aren’t Good at Understanding Risk. This Is How That Ruins People’s Financial Futures

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul and Jim talk about how humans are not good at understanding or managing risk because if the markets are up, if the president you like is in the White House, or if you just got a big promotion at work, you’re going to be more willing to take risks. The opposite is also true. Listen along as these advisors explain why using proven academic methods is better than letting your intuition or emotions guide your decisions. Later in the episode, Paul and Jim share about how innovation in technology and business will not only drive profits for businesses but also continue to improve the quality of life.

Income “Buckets” in Retirement = Sales “Buckets” for Your Advisor

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul invites Jim from the Goodlettsville office onto the show, and the two get into a conversation about strategies for paying yourself in retirement. Jim brings up a very popular pitch people hear as they near retirement: moving your money into short, medium, and long-term “buckets” that allow your income to be engaged in various levels of risk based on how long it will be before you need the money. While this sounds like a solid plan, it really becomes an opportunity to engage in more than one plan at a time, introduces new risk into your portfolio, and gives advisors opportunities to sell products like annuities. Later in the episode, Paul and Jim talk about an article that claims that because traditional concepts like retiring at 65 years old are no longer held, other concepts, like the 4% rule, don’t apply either.

How To Keep Your Legacy From Being a Headache: An Interview With Attorney Parker Brown (Part 2)

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul invites attorney Parker Brown onto the show to talk about wills, trusts, estate plans, and the probate process. Many people don’t realize that if you don’t have a will, your state has an estate plan for you. Unfortunately, it's usually not what you would really like to have happen to you and your loved ones. Listen along as Paul and Parker dispel some information around estate planning to keep your family from having to navigate financial and legal problems after you’re gone.

How To Keep Your Legacy From Becoming a Headache: An Interview With Attorney Parker Brown

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

A $40K Annuity With an Income Rider That Pays Out … $90 a Month!

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul asks Dan to share some of his experience with clients around annuities to help people see what’s actually going on behind the scenes. Dan shares a story of a client who bought an annuity and was sold an income rider, believing this would help her have a consistent income for years. The payout of this product after the cost of the rider was $90 a month. Listen along as these advisors help you see how the language around these products is twisted to make you believe that you’re getting returns or even wealth growth that isn’t there.

Afraid of Running Out in Retirement? The Solution Is Planning, Not Products

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul, Evan, and Dan talk about investors who are nearing or in retirement and their biggest concerns. Fewer and fewer people are entering retirement with confidence, and the industry is so focused on selling them products or sharing advanced strategies instead of education and planning. Listen along as three experienced advisors explain why no one can help you make the right decision until they have a strong understanding of your situation and goals.

Setting Up the Straw Man: A Sales Tactic Investors Fall Into

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul, Evan, and Dan discuss an advertisement that aims to convince investors that “normal” advisors are wrong about bonds and will run your retirement into the ground if you let them. The problem is that the sales pitch sets up a scenario that rarely happens in the industry and fails to mention that all they are doing is selling a product that makes them a large commission. Evan calls the tactic for setting up a false situation to pitch against setting up the straw man and explains why it’s one of the oldest tricks in the sales book. Listen along as these investors talk about why an annuity is not a good alternative to a diversified portfolio, regardless of your age.

Why Is Vanguard Trying To Sell Bond Funds to Young Investors? Paul Calls Out This Weird Commercial

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul brings in a commercial showing trendy young investors working with their flashy advisor, and the secret sauce that is bringing in all the success is … “institutional grade” bond funds? Listen along as Paul, Evan, and Dan explain what’s wrong with this picture and why the financial industry is more interested in how marketable a product is and not how effective it is. Later in the episode, the European stock market isn’t seeing very many new public companies. Does this mean anything for investors?

Your Biggest Fears About Retirement and Why You Don’t Want To Hire a Planner (Part 2)

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

In this two-part episode, Evan covers the things that worry investors the most about retirement and the top 10 reasons people don’t work with a financial planner. Sixty percent of Americans don’t work with a financial planner at all, whether it’s because they have hang-ups about discussing finances, have been burned by bad planners in the past, or they don’t believe they have enough money to start. Listen along as Evan talks about the biggest fears people have around planning for their future and the most common hang-ups in reaching out for help.

Your Biggest Fears About Retirement and Why You Don’t Want To Hire a Planner (Part 1)

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Just Say “No” to Alternative Investments

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Evan shares an article by Jason Zwieg, titled “Wall Street's Big, Bad Idea for Your 401(k),” which highlights how Wall Street is excited to start selling alternative investments to average investors. Listen along as Evan explains why you should always be cautious when a company that sells you something is excited that the rules have relaxed, and why you should just say “no” to alternative investments. Later in the episode, Evan explains why millennials have more wealth than they’ve ever had, but are more worried about money.

How To Invest During a Trump Presidency With Chris Hand

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul jumps onto Chris Hand’s show on WTN to talk about an executive order signed by President Trump that allows crypto, private equities, and other alternative assets to be added to your 401(k) plan by your employer. Historically, 401(k) plans have often offered funds that lack diversification and employ market timing, which adds a whole new level of risk. Listen along as Paul and Chris talk about how to invest during a Trump presidency.

Do You Know How the Stock Market Works or Even What It Is?

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Most investor misinformation and confusion surround some of the most fundamental concepts about the stock market. What is the stock market? Who sets the prices? Why has it been seen as the greatest wealth-building tool in the history of the world? Today, Evan addresses these topics by explaining how the stock market is a network of markets that are all driven by individual companies trying to make profitable businesses and explains some of the ins and outs of how it works and how it can be studied. Later in the episode, Evan acknowledges some skepticism forming around economic data after President Trump fired Erika McEntarfer, the Commissioner of the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

You Walk Into a Bank With a Large Amount To Save and Get Sold a High-Commission Product

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul talks about two common situations where professionals in the industry call themselves “financial planners” offering “safe and conscientious options” for people trying to save, but it turns out that they don’t have any official education and are selling high-commission products. Listen along as Paul explains what is wrong with the training and education in the industry and how the products with the highest commissions just happen to be the ones financial planners think are in your best interest.

Meme Stocks: What Are They and Why Are People Getting Caught Up in Them?

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul starts off the show sharing that firms and planners can claim to be a fiduciary and then immediately sell you something that states in the fine print, “We are not acting as a fiduciary during this sale.” Paul then segues to a topic that sucks many investors into gambling and speculation: meme stocks and penny stocks. Listen along to hear what meme stocks are, why the financial media loves to talk about them, and the few success stories.

Large U.S. Was Hurting in Q1. Most Money Managers Got It Wrong.

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

At the beginning of the year, countless money managers and pundits reacted to tariffs, advising investors to shift funds from large U.S. companies into cash and other “safer” investments. This is just market timing, and most investors don’t realize that the firm they are investing in is doing this without their permission. Paul covers why you need to read the disclosures of your managers, because if not, you will get sucked into market timing and your portfolio will underperform the benchmark. Later in the episode, Paul shares a MarketWatch article about FED rates and homeownership.

The Market Is Still the Right Place To Be. Anyone Saying Otherwise Is Selling.

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Today, Paul talks about some of the most common advertising techniques people use to sell you their high-commission insurance products. All of these sales pitches are deceptive and can be easily debunked with basic knowledge about how stocks generate earnings and what happens to stocks during periods of uncertainty and inflation. Listen along as Paul breaks down why it’s important to slow down and remember the basic principles of investing and the difference between real financial education and an elaborate sales pitch. Later in the episode, Paul shares an article that shows how many Americans actually have $1 million for retirement and what’s holding people back.

Check Your 401(k) Regularly for These Bad Investments

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 01:00:00 -0500

Paul warns all investors of something new coming to pensions and 401(k)s that is not worth the risk. Today, Paul covers a new law allowing private equities to be put into funds in your retirement accounts. These investments raise the risk level of your retirement without any requirements for the companies to report earnings. Paul wants investors to double-check that they are avoiding products with these bad investments in the work programs.