Best of Simply Money

Midyear Market Check: Resilience Amid the Headlines

As 2025 hits the halfway mark, what do the markets, the economy, and your portfolio really look like? On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian dissect the surprising strength of the markets despite geopolitical tensions, tariff fights, inflation fears, and political division. They explore what’s fueling the market’s growth, the role of earnings and inflation, and why long-term investors should stay the course.
Plus, insights into Kroger’s strategy shift, the truth about dividend reinvestment, key estate tax updates, and how life changes like retirement or divorce can—and should—reshape your financial plan.

Should You Bail on the Market During Global Chaos?

From wars and terror attacks to political strife, global events can shake our nerves—but should they shake our investments too? On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian explore how markets have historically responded to geopolitical turmoil, and why staying the course with a solid financial plan could be your smartest move.
Plus, a deep dive into the boom in annuity sales and the real costs of those "guarantees," and an important warning about using AI for your online purchases.

The Life You Want, On Your Terms: Discover Financial Flexibility

Is the traditional idea of retirement outdated? On this week’s Best of Simply Money podcast, Bob and Brian challenge the old-school dream of "never working again" and introduce a more dynamic vision: financial flexibility. Discover how shifting your mindset—and your financial strategy—can unlock purpose, passion, and peace of mind in your later years.

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.