Dollar Wise Podcast

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Brett Herron and Andrew Barnhart discuss why tax planning is one of the most important—and often overlooked—aspects of retirement planning. While investment performance will always be influenced by market conditions, retirees have more control over how and when they recognize income. Brett and Andrew examine several key tax “tripwires” that...

In this episode of the Dollar Wise Podcast, host Andrew Barnhart is joined by Taylor West from LLIS to discuss the fundamentals of life insurance and disability insurance planning. They break down why insurance matters as part of a broader financial plan, when coverage is most important, and how to think about protecting your family and income throughout different life stages. Taylor also explains...

In this episode of the Dollar Wise Podcast, host Andrew Barnhardt sits down with Taylor West from LLIS to unpack the essentials of long-term care (LTC) planning. They explore why planning for long-term care is more important than ever, the different ways to cover potential costs, and how various insurance solutions can help protect both your finances and your loved ones. Whether you're approaching...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, HFM advisor Catherine Allen-Carlozo sits down with Dr. Claudine De Dan, an MDVIP-affiliated physician whose personalized, preventative care model is reshaping how patients approach aging and long-term health. Dr. De Dan shares why building a trusting relationship with a primary care physician is critical, especially as we age, and how small...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Brett Herron, CFP® is joined by Valentina Lucchetti-Gallo, HFM’s Marketing & Events Coordinator, for a candid Q&A on one of the most frequently asked-about financial tools: the 401(k). Brett addresses common questions about contributions, taxes, investment options, retirement timelines, and employer matches. Whether you're just star...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Andrew Barnhardt and Brett Herron explore various strategies for saving for children’s futures — whether it's for education, retirement, or general financial support. They break down the pros and cons of different account types, including 529 plans, custodial Roth IRAs, UTMAs/UGMAs, and saving in a parent’s name. Listeners will gain a clear...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Andrew Barnhardt CFP® and Brett Herron CFP® break down the topic of below-the-line tax deductions , offering practical explanations and examples to help listeners understand how these deductions work. They discuss the difference between standard and itemized deductions , key itemized categories like mortgage interest, state and local taxes,...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Andrew Barnhardt and Brett Herron of HFM Advisors dive into the world of above-the-line tax deductions. These often-overlooked deductions can reduce your adjusted gross income and improve your eligibility for other tax benefits. From retirement contributions and HSAs to student loan interest and self-employment tax breaks, Andrew and Brett...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this solo episode, Certified Financial Planner Catherine Allen-Carlozo explores a mindset shift that can help transform financial anxiety into confidence. Drawing inspiration from the book  The Gap and The Gain  by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy, Catherine unpacks how shifting your focus from what’s missing to what you’ve already accomplis...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Jason Gabrieli, CFP, is joined by Andrew Barhardt, CFP, to explore how charitable contributions can be optimized for tax efficiency. They discuss practical strategies such as donor-advised funds, gifting appreciated stock, and estate planning techniques to ensure your generosity also leads to tax benefits. Whether you're navigating a high-i...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Catherine Allen-Carlozo and Tyler Reedman dive into an unconventional yet valuable topic: what happens to your travel rewards—points, miles, and loyalty perks—when you pass away? Prompted by a real client experience, the discussion unpacks how various credit card, airline, and hotel programs treat reward balances after death and what estate...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast! In this episode, Catherine Allen-Carlozo, a Certified Financial Planner at HFM Investment Advisors, explores the transition from being a saver to a spender in retirement. Many retirees struggle with the fear of spending their savings, worrying about outliving their money, market crashes, or unexpected medical expenses. Catherine shares practical strategies...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast! In this episode, Jason takes a deep dive into the key financial events of 2024. From understanding the S&P 500's stellar 25% performance to exploring the nuances of inflation, unemployment, and GDP growth, Jason provides a comprehensive reflection on a remarkable year for both the stock market and the economy. He also tackles pressing questions about in...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Jason Gabrieli, a certified financial planner at HFM Investment Advisors, discusses the increasing interest in multi-year guaranteed annuities as interest rates rise. With more clients and insurance agents inquiring about these products, Jason dives into the pros and cons, potential pitfalls, and considerations to make before adding them to...

Welcome to this episode of the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Jason Gabrieli discusses the growing concern around election outcomes and their potential impact on investments. With the media heightening fear and uncertainty, Jason offers insight into why emotions can mislead investors and how focusing on long-term goals is essential. He also explains how historical data shows a limited corre...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. Jason Gabrieli is joined by Andrew Barnhardt from the HFM team as they explore tax strategies related to charitable giving, focusing on the benefits of Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from IRAs. The discussion covers how changes in the tax code impact charitable deductions, who can benefit from QCDs, and key considerations when planning your chari...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Jason Gabrieli is joined by Brittany Tedesco from Bratton Law Group to discuss the essential steps and considerations when dealing with the death of a loved one. The conversation covers the importance of having a will, the difference between probate and non-probate assets, and practical advice on how to manage estate administration effectiv...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Jason Gabrieli and guest Brian Masessa, CPA from Premier Accounting Services, delve into the financial complexities that arise when a loved one passes away. They discuss the essential steps executors must take, the intricacies of probate, and the importance of proper documentation. Brian explains the different types of taxes involved, inclu...

In this episode of the Dollar Wise Podcast, host Jason Gabrieli is joined by Chad Willardson, president and founder of Pacific Capital, bestselling author, and co-founder of GravyStack. Chad shares his journey of teaching financial literacy to children, inspired by his experiences as a father of five. He discusses the development of GravyStack, an innovative app designed to help kids learn about m...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Jason Gabrieli and Catherine Allen-Carlozo, both CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS at HFM Investment Advisors, discuss the most loaded question they encounter: "How much do I need to retire?" This discussion unpacks the factors that influence the answer to this question, highlighting personal spending, lifestyle choices, and strategic financial...

Welcome back to the Dollar Wise Podcast. In this episode, Jason Gabrielli, a certified financial planner, discusses the current trend of keeping money in cash. With high-yield savings accounts offering around 5%, many investors are unsure whether to invest or leave their money in cash. Jason highlights the importance of understanding historical returns and differentiating between short-term and lo...

Jason Gabrieli and Tyler Reedman, both CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS at HFM Investment Advisors, dispel common misconceptions about 401(k) contributions. They dissect the difference between matching the employer’s contribution and maxing out a 401(k). They discuss contribution limits and strategies to increase contributions incrementally so you can optimize your savings. This episode is a must-list...

When you retire, do you want to stay in New Jersey? Jason delves into the common concerns about retiring in New Jersey, such as the state’s reputation for high taxes and living costs. He also covers recent changes and programs like the Senior Tax Freeze and the Stay NJ program that make New Jersey a more appealing retirement destination. Lastly, he discusses the nuances of property and income taxe...

Home improvements, purchasing electric vehicles, and installing a qualified vehicle refueling and recharging apparatus at your home could entitle you to a tax credit. Jason reviews the different types of credits, their requirements, and the importance of consulting a tax advisor to optimize these opportunities to integrate them into your financial plan. Tune into this episode to also learn: Specif...

Are you enrolled in a Health Savings Account? (HSA) In addition to being used for immediate medical expenses, it provides tax advantages and can be used as an additional retirement tool. Jason reviews the requirements for an HSA, such as enrolling in a high-deductible health plan and the potential to invest contributions for long-term growth. He also introduces the concept of a Limited Purpose Fle...