Ditch The Suits: Financial Planning Insights Without The Sales Pitch

What if the biggest thing holding you back financially isn't your income, your education, or the economy? What if it's the story you're telling yourself (and that everyone else seems to be telling you)? In this episode of Ditch The Suits, I explore how narratives and incentives shape financial behaviour and why so many people feel stuck, despite having opportunities available to them. We dive into...

The headlines will tell you that the middle class is disappearing. That wealth is out of reach. That the system is stacked against us. But what if the problem isn't your finances at all? What if you're measuring success using the wrong scoreboard? In this episode of the new season of Ditch The Suits, we take a closer look at one of the loudest narratives in America: the decline of the middle class...

Maybe you're wondering if your financial advisor is really working for you (or for themselves), or you're worried about hidden fees, market volatility, or the next big tax change that could throw your plans off track. I get it. I've spent decades helping people just like you navigate these challenges, and I know first-hand how overwhelming it can feel. I’m your host, Travis Maus, and this is Ditch...

In this episode of Ditch the Suits , Travis steps back to share the story behind the podcast; where it started, how it evolved, and why it’s entering a new chapter. What began during the uncertainty of COVID as a way to cut through fear and misinformation has grown into something much bigger: a platform dedicated to helping people make smarter, more confident financial decisions. Along the way, th...

In this episode of Ditch the Suits , Travis Maus tackles some of the most searched financial questions; starting with high‑yield accounts and where cash really belongs in today’s environment. You’ll learn the real differences between online savings accounts, money market funds, bonds, and other “higher yield” options, along with the trade‑offs around access, liquidity, and risk that rarely get exp...

In this episode of Ditch the Suits , Travis Maus takes on some of the most common investing questions people are asking today and challenges the assumptions behind them. From “What should my net worth be by age?” to “Should I get more conservative as I get older?” Travis explains why comparing yourself to benchmarks or headlines often leads to bad decisions. The conversation dives deep into market...

In this episode of Ditch the Suits, we tackle some of the biggest financial questions people face and why the “right” answers aren’t as universal as we’ve been led to believe. Instead of rigid rules or industry clichés, this episode focuses on how real people can think more clearly about their money and make better long-term decisions. We break down common assumptions about being “ready” for retir...

Feeling overwhelmed by budgeting, saving, or investing and tired of hearing advice that doesn’t fit real life? In this episode of Ditch the Suits , Travis Maus answers some of the most common money questions people actually search for, from how to build a realistic budget and emergency fund, to deciding whether you should invest, pay off debt, or ignore the crypto hype altogether. You’ll learn how...

In this episode of the Ditch the Suits podcast, I’m joined once again with Hannah Burchell, Senior Wealth Manager at S.E.E.D. Planning Group as we tackle the complex realities behind financial stress, exploring how family dynamics, communication, and emotional wellbeing shape our financial decisions. This conversation will dive into how money anxiety often stems from...

Welcome to a new episode of the Ditch the Suits podcast, today we are joined by Hannah Burchell, Senior Wealth Manager at S.E.E.D. Planning Group as we dive deep into the true meaning of financial planning. This conversation is going to take us far beyond spreadsheets and projections as we explore how money intersects with life’s most important moments. You’ll he...

Navigating health insurance and Medicare can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. In this episode, Travis Maus (CEO of S.E.E.D. Planning Group) sits down with Cole Craven, founder and Head of Growth at Move Health, to break down how financial advisors and their clients can confidently tackle healthcare decisions.  Discover how Move Health’s team-based approach and partnership w...

Health insurance and Medicare often feel like a black box, especially for retirees, entrepreneurs, and anyone facing a major life transition. In this episode, Travis Maus (CEO of S.E.E.D. Planning Group) welcomes Cole Craven, founder and Head of Growth at Move Health, to shine a light on the complexities of healthcare coverage and empower listeners with practical, actionable knowledge.  Wheth...

In this episode of Ditch the Suits, we are going to dig deeper into the question: Is the middle class truly disappearing in America? Building on last episode’s discussion of statistics and public opinion, we’ll examine the long-term trends from 1980 to 2020, breaking down how shifts in income, demographics, and retirement patterns have impacted the middle class. We are going to challenge the narra...

In this episode of Ditch the Suits, we are going to dive deep into the evolving story of the American middle class, exploring why it’s shrinking, why that matters, and what you can actually do about it. You’ll hear both sides of the debate: the familiar narrative that the middle class is disappearing as the rich get richer, and a counter-narrative that challenges those assumptions with fresh data...

Introduction   In this episode, we sit down with Dan Kain, Senior Wealth Manager from S.E.E.D. Planning Group, to tackle one of the most misunderstood aspects of financial planning: how advisors get paid and what real value looks like at every stage of wealth. We break down the myths around fees, commissions, and the true cost of financial advice, especially for...

Introduction   In this episode, Travis sits down with Dan Kain, Senior Wealth Manager from S.E.E.D. Planning Group , to dig into the transformation from a traditional financial advisor to a truly holistic planner. This isn’t just about changing job titles, it’s about evolving how we serve people, mastering new skills, and building trust through every step of the financial planning process. Wh...

Unapologetic Insights into Financial Planning   In this episode, we dive deep into the realities of the financial planning industry, sharing candid stories and professional insights from Travis’ own journey and those of his colleagues. The conversation is direct and transparent, cutting through industry jargon to expose the differences between product-driven sales and holistic, client-centere...

Introduction and Theme In this episode, we wrap up a three-part miniseries focused on financial literacy. The conversation centers on compelling research that shows self-discipline is a stronger predictor of financial success than IQ. We dig into why willpower often trumps talent when it comes to achieving financial goals and how automating good habits can help you avoid relying on fleeting motiva...

Introduction: In this episode, dive into the second part of our three-part mini-series on financial literacy. This episode is all about the subtle ways people shift their ethical standards around money, how small compromises can become normalized, and why we justify overspending or under-saving. We’re joined by Jamie Shelton, Senior Wealth Manager at S.E.E.D. Planning Group and board president of...

In episode 188, we dive into the topic of financial literacy, exploring the lessons we wish we’d learned before our first paycheck. The episode unpacks pervasive money myths, the challenges of discussing finances - especially with those closest to us - and the reality behind so-called “smart financial moves.” We also discuss inherited financial habits, generational money mindset clashes, and what...

Summary   This episode explores the newly expanded SALT (State and Local Tax) deduction under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB), focusing on its impact for high-income earners and residents of high-tax states.  Key Points Covered   SALT Deduction Expansion:   The cap on SALT deductions jumps from $10,000 to $40,000, a major relief for households earning under $500,000.&nbsp...

Summary   This episode breaks down the real impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB) on seniors and Social Security, clarifying misconceptions spread by headlines and political messaging.  Key Points Covered   OBBB’s Actual Impact:   Contrary to headlines, the OBBB does not eliminate taxes on Social Security .  It introduces a modest tax deduction for those age 65+,...

Summary   In this episode of Ditch the Suits, we dive into the complex history and current challenges of Social Security, especially in light of the recently passed "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" (OBBB). Follow along as we clarify misconceptions, explain the evolution of Social Security, and discuss the impact of new legislation on benefits and taxation.  Key Points Covered   Historic...

In this episode of Ditch the Suits, we dive into the essential world of financial planning, with a special focus on managing your 401k. We tackle common misconceptions about retirement funds and their restricted use, shedding light on the importance of strategic planning to avoid financial pitfalls. We also explore the Secure 2.0 Act, which introduces provisions for emergency withdrawals, and disc...

In this episode of Ditch the Suits, we delve into the unique experiences and challenges that arise when people approach us with financial questions in social settings. We explore the often guarded nature of individuals when it comes to discussing their finances openly and the complexities of providing advice based on limited information. Our conversation highlights the importance of financial plan...