Dollars&Sense Nelson Financial Planning

We break down the wild swings of Q2 2025 markets (did you know it was the first time since 1938 the S&P 500 was both up AND down 10%+ in a single quarter?! 🤯), explain what the massive new tax bill really means for your wallet (spoiler: most 2017 tax cuts are here to stay 🏛️💸), and dive into the 10 ways to fail at retirement—based on the latest AARP insights. Are you ready to dodge the bigge...

In this insightful episode of "Dollars & Sense," we dive into three financial topics that resonate with many of us. First, we explore the journey of setting up a business, breaking down the common pitfalls, hidden costs, and strategic choices that can make or break your entrepreneurial success. Whether you're launching your first startup or considering a side hustle, these tips will save you t...

Hosts Rob Field and Kristin Castello share practical insights on evaluating real estate as a passive income stream—covering the numbers, the pitfalls, and common misconceptions from rapid home appreciation during the pandemic years. Learn about the true costs, time commitments, and the less obvious tax implications of rental ownership, including depreciation, passive loss rules, and how to plan fo...

On this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel and Zach dive into two critical financial topics you don’t want to miss! First, they break down the latest Social Security updates, including why benefits might be reduced sooner than expected and what you can do to prepare. Then, they reveal four sneaky ways you might be spending money without even realizing it—from autopay subscriptions to those tempt...

On this week's episode of Dollars & Sense, we dive into two hot financial topics that could impact your wallet and your future investments!  Model Portfolios: Did you know assets in model portfolios surged to a record $8 trillion this year? Find out the pros and cons of these pre-packaged investment options and why you need to ask your financial advisor the right questions to truly know what y...

his week’s episode of the Dollars & Sense Financial Podcast dives deep into two crucial financial topics: the emotional and logistical challenges of retirement and the shifting dynamics of the housing market. Hosts Joel Garris and Chet Cowart explore the often-overlooked aspects of retirement, from combating loneliness to crafting a meaningful routine. They also analyze the current real estate...

In this episode of the Dollars & Sense Financial Podcast, host Joel Garris dives into two essential and often overlooked topics: how to discuss finances with your kids and how to prepare for the survivor’s penalty when losing a partner. 💬💰  Joel begins by addressing the taboo nature of financial conversations within families. He highlights the importance of teaching the next generation about...

Looking to unlock the secret to millionaire status while keeping your investments on track? This week's episode of Dollars & Sense dives into the surprising path most U.S. millionaires take—hint: it’s not a get-rich-quick scheme—and reveals how consistent retirement contributions can transform your financial future. 💵💡  Plus, we’re tackling the essentials of portfolio rebalancing! Learn when...

Ready for some 🔥 financial updates? In this episode of the Dollars and Sense podcast, Kristin Castello and Chet Cowart dive deep into two major conversations affecting your wallet:  💸 **Student Loans in Collections**: Millions of borrowers are facing collections and garnished wages as repayment policies resume. Find out how to navigate these challenges and plan ahead for your financial future. ...

Join us on this week's episode of Dollars & Sense for some insightful discussions about the investments you should be cautious about and the important moments to update your estate plan. 💼📈  We kick off the episode with an in-depth look at hedge funds and ETFs, highlighting their potential pitfalls. Did you know that hedge funds can be highly leveraged and come with hefty management fees tha...

In this episode of Dollars & Sense, financial expert hosts Joel and Christina delve into the complexities of tax season and share the top 10 tax trouble spots that individuals face. They discuss critical issues such as the taxation of social security, where increased income can lead to higher taxes on these benefits, and the Premium Tax Credit (PTC) recapture related to the Affordable Care Act...

📈💰 In this week's episode of Dollars & Sense, we dive deep into the importance of math when making investment decisions. Learn how accurate calculations can make or break your financial future. 🤔💡 We share a specific example of a costly mistake made when not performing basic math before investing. Discover how proper math can reveal true rates of return and help you make wiser choices. 🧮...

🚀 Dive into this week's episode where we cover EVERYTHING from volatile markets 📈 to savvy pet financial planning 🐶🐱, and the secret sauce to a successful retirement! 🏖️  🔥 Key insights:  The alarming rise of market volatility and investor sentiment. 📊 Protecting and preparing for your pets in case of your untimely demise. 🐾 Why having a formal financial plan can make a HUGE difference in y...

This week's episode of Dollars & Sense dives deep into the latest market developments following President Trump's suspension of tariffs, showcasing an unprecedented surge in the Dow, SP500, and Nasdaq. Hosts Rob Field and Joel Garris delve into the historical significance of such market swings and emphasize the importance of maintaining a consistent investment strategy amidst volatility.  The...

🎙️ Financial experts, Joel and Chet, discuss the complexities of market volatility and uncover the '7 Deadly Investing Sins.' 🏦💼 Learn how to stay ahead in unpredictable times and make smart investment choices. Chet and Joel will guide you through the importance of diversification, consistency in investment strategies, and managing media consumption. 📉📰  We also discuss the impact of recent ta...

🔊 Tune in to this week's episode of Dollars & Sense where we dive into the latest market trends 📊 and essential tax tips 💸! Discover how the "Mag 7" stocks' performance impacts your portfolio and get ready for the new 1099-K reporting requirements. Plus, learn smart strategies to navigate Social Security taxation and optimize your tax returns! Don't miss out on these valuable insights! 🎧✨...

In our latest episode, we dive into the complexities of tariffs and their impact on global trade 🌍, as well as the future of Social Security 📅. With trade deficits at $1.1 trillion and ongoing debates about protectionist measures, it's crucial to stay informed on how these changes affect your investments 💰. Plus, we touch on potential reforms to Social Security and what that means for future ge...

In this week's episode of Dollars & Sense, key strategies for protecting yourself from tax identity theft and tips for navigating investment taxes were discussed.  Tax Identity Theft Prevention  Understanding Tax Identity Theft: A fraudster uses personal information to file a fake tax return and claim a refund.  Get an IP PIN: Apply for a six-digit Identity Protection Personal Identification N...

In this episode of Dollars & Sense, hosts Joel Garris and Zach Keister delve into the recent market volatility and its impact on investment portfolios. They emphasize the importance of reviewing one's portfolio and maintaining a balance between conservative and growth-oriented investments to weather the storm of market fluctuations.  Additionally, the episode explores five financial red flags...

Ready to optimize your retirement and stay ahead of new scams? In this week's episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel goes over creating a tax plan that can save you money in retirement. 🤑 Plus, learn about the frightening rise of AI-powered scams and how to protect your assets from these sophisticated threats. 🛡️  Tune in for essential tips and insights! 🎥👇  #RetirementPlanning #TaxTips #AIScams...

In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel and Rob dive deep into the world of annuities. They break down the complexities, from guaranteed incomes to the hidden fees that could affect your investments. You'll also hear about the dramatic increase in annuity sales and what it means for potential investors. Plus, they share some exciting news about their book being featured at the LA Times Festiv...

Joel will delve into the unique financial and health challenges men face in retirement. From the importance of mental health to navigating healthcare and maintaining physical fitness, we cover critical topics that impact the quality of life for retired men. We also discuss how to prepare for these challenges, including tips on financial planning and maximizing Social Security benefits. Discover ho...

Join Joel and special guest Christina Lamb, a fellow CFF and IRS enrolled agent, on the latest episode of Dollars & Sense. They dive into 5 early tax season trends that are impacting tax returns this year. Plus, they debunk some of the most common retirement myths. Whether you're prepping for tax season or planning for retirement, you won't want to miss this insightful discussion! 💼💰 #Dollar...

🎙️ In this episode of Dollars & Sense, Joel dives into the latest headlines about Chinese AI developments and shares essential tips to help you avoid common retirement missteps. 💡 Tune in to discover how to overcome biases when starting your wealth accumulation journey and learn about the pitfalls many face on their way to a secure retirement. 💰  Don't miss out on this insightful discussion...

Join guest hosts and financial experts Chet Cowart and Kristin Castello as they outline the big tax changes coming in 2025 on this episode of the Dollars & Sense Podcast! 🎙️ 🗓️ Find out how the end of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will impact your tax rates and deductions. Plus, they break down the new catch-up contributions for retirement plans and HSAs, making saving a bit easier for everyone....