Best of Simply Money

Are You Rich or Just Comfortable? The Truth About Financial Independence

Think a $2 million nest egg makes you rich? On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian break down the often misunderstood line between being wealthy and being truly financially independent. From benchmark net worth stats to the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies money management, they dive into the crucial questions every high-earner should ask themselves before and during retirement.
You’ll also learn why knowing your spending habits matters more than your net worth, how to build a guardrail strategy for market dips, the silent dangers of holding too much cash, and the emotional impact of delayed retirement. Plus, an estate planning expert joins the show to bust some common myths and share what most people overlook.
Whether you're nearing retirement or just curious about your financial future, this episode delivers practical advice with a dose of hard truth.

The #1 Mistake Even Smart Investors Make — And How to Fix It

On this week's Best of Simply podcast, Bob and Brian uncover the most common mistake even successful savers make with their money — and it’s not what you’d expect. Learn why having multiple accounts without a strategy could be sabotaging your financial future.
They also break down how to manage concentrated stock positions, the role of buffered ETFs in today's volatile markets, and why the first 10 years of retirement spending matter more than you think. Plus, a 5-minute task that could save you thousands in fraud protection. Don't miss these actionable insights to help secure your money now and for years to come!

Why Smart People Make Dumb Money Decisions

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian explore why even the smartest people can make lousy financial decisions — and what you can do to avoid the same traps.
Then, why Gen X may be facing the toughest retirement landscape yet… and what can still be done about it.
Plus, building your personal brand in retirement, and you ‘Ask the Advisor.’

The Value of Money, How to Stress-Test Your Portfolio, and Smart Options for High-Net-Worth Investors

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Steve take a step back from the usual market talk and get personal - asking a simple but powerful question: What does money really mean to you?
Is it security? Freedom? Maybe status? Everyone sees money differently, and Bob and Steve dig into how those views shape the financial decisions we make—often more with our hearts than our heads.
They also walk through how to stress-test your financial plan (without freaking out), and why emotions can sometimes throw logic out the window. Plus, hear how a solid plan can give you the freedom to live life on your terms—whether that’s retiring early, switching careers, or just sleeping better at night.
It’s a refreshingly real conversation about money, mindset, and making choices that actually fit your life.

Fed Holds Rates Steady, Bearish Predictions Miss the Mark, and How to Stay Ready for a Recession

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Amy and Bob break down the Fed’s decision to hold interest rates steady—and what it really means for your money. They push back on the latest bearish market predictions and explain why they might not matter. Plus, is a recession looming? Hear which risk indicators they’re watching and how smart investors can prepare without panicking.

How Global Diversification Can Help Protect Your Portfolio in 2025

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Amy and Bob break down how market volatility is shaking up portfolios - and what you can do about it. They explain why the classic 60/40 mix of stocks and bonds still matters and how global diversification (think Poland and Spain) could be your portfolio’s secret weapon in 2025.
Plus, they sound the alarm on concentrated bets like the ‘Magnificent Seven’ tech stocks - and why those high-fliers are now dragging investors down.
 

Political Noise, Market Drops, Portfolio Protection, and Smart Diversification Moves

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Amy and Bob unpack what’s really behind the latest market turbulence — and it’s not just the headlines. Tensions are rising between President Trump and Fed Chair Jerome Powell, and the ripple effects are hitting investors hard. They’ll take you through past moments when presidents have clashed with the Fed, and what history can teach us about what might come next.
Plus, they share practical advice for keeping your financial plan steady — including why a globally diversified portfolio and a fresh look at bonds and international stocks might be exactly what your portfolio needs right now.

Tariffs, Turmoil, and Tactical Moves

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Amy and Bob dive deep into the ongoing tariff negotiations impacting international trade and markets. They share their insights into how this volatile environment affects investors, highlighting key market reactions like exemptions on electronics impacting tech stocks such as Apple.
Plus, Amy and Bob cover the current landscape of corporate earnings, emphasizing the lack of guidance from companies and the implications for investors. With Congress grappling with tax laws and the challenges in dealing with international agreements, they suggest listeners brace for continued volatility.
They caution against emotional decision-making and emphasize adaptive strategies, including the potential benefits of Roth conversions during market lows. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the complexities of tariffs, trade, and market strategies amidst uncertainty.

Wild Market Swings, Misleading Indices, and Long-Term Strategy

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Amy and Bob discuss wild market swings and delve into the misconceptions surrounding market indices, particularly the Dow Jones Industrial Average. They explain why it may lead investors astray.
Plus, they provide tips on portfolio rebalancing during volatile times and the role of a fiduciary advisor in navigating these challenges. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to better understand their investment choices in today’s ever-changing market landscape.

Investment Anxiety: Navigating the Fear-Driven Headlines

On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Amy and Bob explore the current state of the economy, dissecting the fear-inducing headlines that dominate the financial news landscape. Then, they discuss alternatives to the traditional 60-40 portfolio, aiming to provide listeners with strategies for diversifying investments amid market uncertainty.
Plus, Amy shares firsthand insights on navigating divorce from a financial standpoint, highlighting the pitfalls of clinging to emotionally charged assets and the necessity of being financially informed. The episode concludes with a closer look at how current events, like inflation and egg prices, tie back to overarching financial principles.