More Than Commas

In Episode 316 of More Than Commas, we continue our deep dive into White Coat Investor's critique of the Ernst & Young Insurance Study. This time, we break down seven more questionable assumptions, from high advisory fees to mysterious "black box" insurance products. Are these valid criticisms, or is there more to the story? Tune in as we separate sound financial analysis from misleading narrative...

In Episode 315 of More Than Commas, we take a deep dive into White Coat Investor's critique of the Ernst & Young Insurance Products in Retirement Study. While WCI raises some valid concerns, we challenge whether their approach to financial products is always as objective as they claim. Are whole life insurance and annuities really as bad as they suggest? Or is there room for nuance? Tune in as we...

In this episode of More than Commas, we take a deep dive into Ernst & Young's latest white paper on integrating life insurance and annuities into a financial plan. With a projected $240 trillion retirement savings gap by 2030, EY's research highlights how strategies beyond traditional investments—such as permanent life insurance and deferred income annuities—can enhance income stability and legacy...

In this episode of More Than Commas, we tackle the Annuity Puzzle—why retirees often ignore one of the most recommended financial tools: lifetime income annuities. Cory discusses expert insights from economists like Moshe Milevsky, William Sharpe, and Olivia Mitchell, uncovering the behavioral biases, marketing flaws, and misconceptions that keep people from embracing annuities. We explore their b...

Active asset managers promise market-beating returns, but the data tells a different story. In this episode of More than Commas , Cory explores why 90% of actively managed funds underperform over time and how patience, simplicity, and low-cost investing outperform stock-picking strategies. Through stories of legendary investors like Warren Buffett and everyday savers like Ronald Read, we uncover t...

In episode 311, Paul explains that disciplined investing is the key to long-term financial success. He warns against comparing your diversified portfolio to hot asset classes, emphasizing that diversification and systematic rebalancing—selling high and buying low—are essential for managing market volatility and avoiding impulsive decisions. Paul debunks the myth of perfect market timing and stress...

Struggling to build wealth? In this episode of More Than Commas, Elijah Fowler breaks down the common trap of chasing high investment returns and reveals a more reliable path to financial success—boosting your savings rate. Using a real-world example, he demonstrates how a simple shift in mindset can grow your portfolio by hundreds of thousands without the stress of market timing. Tune in to learn...

In this episode of More than Commas, Host Cory Shepherd discusses the challenges of owning real estate in a self-directed IRA. While it may seem like a smart way to diversify retirement investments, several factors complicate this strategy. Key points include the loss of tax benefits, as traditional deductions do not apply; prohibited transactions that restrict personal use and management; and fin...

In episode 308 of the More Than Commas, Host Paul Adams is joined by Jeremy Ames to explore the Rollovers for Business Start-ups (ROBS) strategy, a unique funding option that allows entrepreneurs to use their retirement savings to launch or acquire a business without incurring penalties. Jeremy outlines the ROBS process, emphasizing the importance of forming a C-corporation and setting up a new 40...

In episode 307 of More than Commas, Cory Shepherd and Todd Schwartz explore the strategy of assuming a seller's low-interest mortgage in today's high-rate real estate market. He explains how this approach allows buyers to take over existing loans, potentially saving thousands by accessing lower interest rates. Todd highlights key points such as the types of assumable loans (FHA, VA, USDA), the ass...

In episode 306 of More than Commas, Host Cory Shepherd explores the crucial differences between simple interest and compound interest. Listeners will learn how simple interest is calculated solely on the principal amount, while compound interest builds on both the principal and accumulated interest. Through relatable examples, Paul illustrates the financial impact of each type, emphasizing how com...

In this episode, Paul dives into the mortgage payoff, exploring the financial realities. Is paying off your mortgage early always the smartest move? Paul examines financial trade-offs, opportunity costs, and strategies to help you make informed decisions about your financial goals. This episode offers a fresh perspective on financial freedom. Check out these mortgage-related episodes from the chan...

In episode 305 of More than Commas, Host Elijah Fowler explores the crucial question of retirement funding through the lens of the 4% Rule. This popular guideline suggests retirees can withdraw 4% of their savings annually without depleting their funds over 30 years. Elijah discusses key factors influencing this rule, including market fluctuations, inflation, and personal expenses, emphasizing tha...

In this episode of More than Commas, we explore the essential differences between 401(k)s and IRAs—two vital tools for retirement savings. Join Host Cory Shepherd as we break down their unique features, including employer sponsorship, contribution limits, investment choices, tax advantages, and withdrawal rules. Discover which option might be best for your financial situation and learn how to maxi...

In Episode 303 of More than Commas, Elijah Fowler talks about the differences between traditional 401(k) and Roth 401(k) retirement plans. He explains that traditional 401(k) contributions are made with pre-tax dollars, providing immediate tax benefits, while Roth 401(k) contributions are made with after-tax dollars, allowing for tax-free withdrawals in retirement. The episode also covers employer...

In episode 302 of More Than Commas, Host Paul Adams discusses the Backdoor Roth IRA, a strategy designed for high-income earners who exceed the income limits for direct contributions to a Roth IRA. Listeners will learn how to navigate these limits and create a more tax-efficient retirement strategy.   ---   This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not un...

In this episode of More than Commas, host Paul Adams unpacks the crucial differences between Roth IRAs and Traditional IRAs, two popular retirement accounts. Discover how taxes, contribution limits, and withdrawal rules impact your financial future. Paul explains the tax benefits of each account, eligibility requirements, and the implications of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). Whether you'r...

In this episode of More than Commas, host Paul Adams unveils the exciting rebranding of the podcast, formerly known as Sound Financial Group Podcast. With the new tagline "Your wealth is more than commas," Paul explains the motivation behind this change, emphasizing that true wealth encompasses more than just financial figures. Listeners can expect a broader conversation about living a fulfilling...

For full show notes visit: PODCAST EPISODE 299 - Dave Ramsey can bankrupt you with this advice - Sound Financial Group (sfgway.com) Subscribe and click the bell on Youtube and Facebook to become notified when Paul and Cory post their next episode. This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific indiv...

For full show notes visit: PODCAST EPISODE 298 - Maximizing Your Retirement Income with Whole Life Insurance - Sound Financial Group (sfgway.com) Subscribe and click the bell on Youtube and Facebook to become notified when Paul and Cory post their next episode. This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any...

For full show notes visit: PODCAST EPISODE 297 - How Much Life Insurance Should You Own? - Sound Financial Group (sfgway.com) Subscribe and click the bell on Youtube and Facebook to become notified when Paul and Cory post their next episode. This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific individual...

For full show notes visit: PODCAST EPISODE 296 - Should I Buy Life Insurance for My Kids? - Sound Financial Group (sfgway.com) Subscribe and click the bell on Youtube and Facebook to become notified when Paul and Cory post their next episode. This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific individual...

For full show notes visit: PODCAST EPISODE 295 - The Three Stooges, Jimmy Carr, Whale Oil, and Playgirl... - Sound Financial Group (sfgway.com) Subscribe and click the bell on Youtube and Facebook to become notified when Paul and Cory post their next episode. This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any sp...

For full show notes visit: PODCAST EPISODE 294 - Dave Ramsey Doesn't Understand Life Insurance (Part 2) - Sound Financial Group (sfgway.com) Subscribe and click the bell on Youtube and Facebook to become notified when Paul and Cory post their next episode. This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any speci...

For full show notes visit: PODCAST EPISODE 293 - Dave Ramsey Doesn't Understand Life Insurance - Sound Financial Group (sfgway.com) Subscribe and click the bell on Youtube and Facebook to become notified when Paul and Cory post their next episode. This Material is Intended for General Public Use. By providing this material, we are not undertaking to provide investment advice for any specific indiv...