KPC Smart Money Podcast

Many people are accumulating cash out of concern for stock market losses.  We see many people that are frustrated though as safe alternatives for their cash often are not earning enough to keep up with inflation.  Today we talk about safe and liquid options that are earning more than brick and mortar banks are paying. Key takeaways: Online High Yield Savings accounts How to find one that is right...

2022 was a unique year for the stock market as many negative factors came together at the same time.  The US hasn't seen this combination before: stocks and bonds both down, inflation, and some say a recession.  So do traditional 60/40 investment plans work anymore? Listen to this week's podcast to see why your investment strategies need to change. Key takeaways: The impact of rising interest, inf...

Ever make "big" New Year's resolutions that were onerous, difficult, and didn't last long?  We all have.  So instead, try some of these simple resolutions that are small steps to big change. Key Takeaways: Wake up every morning with a simple positive statement Recognize happy moments when you are in them Is this current issue long term?  If not, let it go Don't procrastinate, get things done as th...

We have all tried New Year's Resolutions that didn't last long.  Instead of resolutions, try adding simple new habits.  We hope you can take one, two, or just a few of these simple habits and make them a part of your New Year.  Our hope for you is that this coming year is better than this past year. Key takeaways: Get healthy, good breakfast, drink more water, sleep 7-8 hours a night Be proud of y...

We have all tried New Year's Resolutions that didn't last long.  Instead of resolutions, try adding simple new habits.  We hope you can take one, two, or just a few of these simple habits and make them a part of your New Year.  Our hope for you is that this coming year is better than this past year. Key takeaways: Count your blessings, and let those you love know what you think of them Journals, b...

What an exciting time becoming a new Grandparent.  This is new territory that needs to be navigated with wisdom and grace.  Times have changed, and the baby has parents who may have different ideas than you do. Listen this week for our tips for new Grandparents. Key takeaways: Keep your advice to yourself Listen to the parents Help when you can, and that includes the parents Follow the parent's ru...

Most people have found themselves dealing with too much debt as some time in their lives.  Others live in perpetual debt.  It isn't a good feeling when those debt payments seem endless.  This three-part series will give you some ideas on how to get out of debt, and stay out of debt. Today we talk about creative ways to cut down on expenses.   Key takeaways: Make a budget Extra income with side gig...

Most people have found themselves dealing with too much debt as some time in their lives.  Others live in perpetual debt.  It isn't a good feeling when those debt payments seem endless.  This three-part series will give you some ideas on how to get out of debt, and stay out of debt. Today we talk about creative ways to cut down on expenses.   Key takeaways: Online coupons and consignment shopping...

Most people have found themselves dealing with too much debt as some time in their lives.  Others live in perpetual debt.  It isn't a good feeling when those debt payments seem endless.  This three-part series will give you some ideas on how to get out of debt, and stay out of debt. Key takeaways: Start an emergency fund so that emergencies don't catch you by surprise List out your debts and pay o...

Being a pet owner has many joys and trials.  Is owning a pet right for you?  On today's podcast we talk about some of the joys and benefits of having pets.  We also discuss the responsibilities and expenses. Key takeaways: Pets can help you live longer Pets can be great companions Know the costs before you get a pet: time and money Covid lockdowns created a rush to get pets

There has been a trend among younger workers called "Quietly Quitting" where they do the least amount of work required for their job.  But a new trend is emerging called "Quietly Returning" where older workers that were retired are "unretiring".  This gives both employers and older workers big advantages.  Older workers want part time, flexibility, routine, and socializing.  Employers can fill ope...

I'm sure you have heard a lot about the provision in the Inflation Increase Act to give $80 million dollars to the IRS.  There has been much concern about increases in IRS audits and that the IRS has been stockpiling bullets.  While lawmakers are trying to calm the concerns of Americans, there are several reasons why the IRS is understaffed and service is suffering.  The real question is what will...

It can be hard to see something that is missing.  We often see people missing these 6 things from their retirement plans.  The good news, is once you see it you can correct it. Not having a complete retirement plan Not considering Long Term Care Not having an estate plan

It can be hard to see something that is missing.  We often see people missing these 6 things from their retirement plans.  The good news, is once you see it you can correct it. Key takeaways: Not having enough emergency savings & low earnings on these funds Having too much company stock Assets not allocated well

Today we explain the difference between inflation and recession and how these each potentially impact you financially.  Does your financial plan include ways to overcome inflation and recession? Key takeaways: We are in the highest inflationary period in over 40 years By historical definition, we are in a recession We haven't seen both together since the 1970's What are good investments right now

With the current inflation, we are looking for ways to make more money, or save money.  On today's podcast we explore ways to earn more, save more, and spend less.  Remember the old adage "a penny saved is a penny earned".   Key takeaways: High Yield Savings Accounts Cash back credit cards Turn a hobby into cash Online coupons & cash back programs  

If you have a mutual fund that isn't performing well, how do you know if you should hold 'em or fold 'em? Look at your overall asset allocation strategy first and see if the fund is still in line with your goals or not.  Then look at how much the fund is costing you. Key takeaways: How soon do you need the money? Look at your risk tolerance instead of chasing past performance Make sure you are reb...

North American workers can be workaholics, with 26% saying they have never taken two weeks' vacation at one time.  But it is taking a toll on many people's health and lives.  So why could vacations save your life?  Listen in to this week's podcast to find out. Key takeaways: Increase mindfulness by reducing familiarity Improve heart health and reduce blood pressure, blood sugar, and abnormal chole...

How you navigate a turbulent stock market depends on your age.  Stay calm.  Then listen to our navigation ideas based on whether you are 25, 45 or 65 years old. Key takeaways: If you're 25 - this is a great opportunity to buy stocks at cheaper prices and hold onto them. You have time on your side If you're 45 - keep to your long term strategy and move from bonds to defensive stocks If you're 65 -...

We enjoy our weekly podcast which cover not only financial and retirement issues, but important issues in life.  Our goal is to encourage you and give you new ways of thinking with tools for your success.  Listen in to why we love what we do. Key takeaways: We truly love to help people One of the favorite parts of our jobs is people, and watching fear leave when they review their Retirement Bluepr...

The S&P 500 is nearing bear market territory, and NASDAQ has already dropped more than 20%.  Add inflation, unemployment, and rising interest rates and people are scared right now.  So just like bear season in the wild, keep on your path and bring bear deterrents. Key takeaways: Inflation is painful right now, as is the Feds increasing of interest rates Supply chain issues are increased due to...

Stock market volatility and how it relates to the current state of the economy is on many people's minds.  It has been over 12 years since we have seen a true market correction.  The COVID-19 downturn turned around quickly.  How are the market indicators different now? Key takeaways: What is an economic cycle and where are we in that cycle? The impact of inflation Is the economy driving stock mark...

On this week's podcast we will look at the definition of these words and how they apply to our relationships.  We will explore what is healthy and unhealthy about each of these.  Moving from dependence, to independence and then to interdependence reveals our level of maturity in taking responsibility for our own wellbeing. Key takeaways: Dependence is relying or being controlled by someone or some...

Lifelong learning is like a health club for your brain. Lifelong learning has many mental and physical benefits, especially as we age.  Engaging in learning for your entire life has many rewards. Key takeaways: Lifelong learning creates a curious, hungry, and open mind Lifelong learning gives us wisdom and helps us adapt to change Lifelong learning enhances relationships, self-fulfillment, and oth...

Lifelong learning is like a health club for your brain. Lifelong learning has many mental and physical benefits, especially as we age.  Engaging in learning for your entire life has many rewards. Key takeaways: Lifelong learning creates a curious, hungry, and open mind Lifelong learning gives us wisdom and helps us adapt to change Lifelong learning enhances relationships, self-fulfillment, and oth...